The Bombay High Court has stayed the release of the film “Shaadi ke Director Karan aur Johar” following a plea by Bollywood director Karan Johar, who objected to the use of his name in the movie’s title [Karan Johar v. IndiaPride Advisory Pvt. Ltd. & Ors].
Justice RI Chagla issued the order today, noting that the unauthorized use of Johar’s name in the film’s title and promotions would prima facie violate his personality and fundamental rights.
“In my view, a strong prima facie case is made by Johar to protect his personality rights, which vests in him, considering that he has the status of a celebrity, as is apparent from several films he has directed and produced. The film, slated for release on June 14, directly references Johar and uses his name without authorization. This use of the name prima facie makes it evident that the defendants have exploited Johar’s personality, creating confusion that the film is associated with Johar,” the Court observed.
Consequently, Justice Chagla passed an interim order restraining the filmmakers from using Karan Johar’s name, either fully or partially, in the film’s title or promotions.
The Court also temporarily prohibited the makers from releasing the film in any format until Karan Johar’s name was removed from the title and existing promotions.
However, the Court allowed the filmmakers the option to seek modification or vacation of the interim order if needed.
This decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by Karan Johar against IndiaPride Advisory (the producers), Sanjay Singh (writer), and Bablu Singh (director).
Johar sought a permanent injunction to prevent the filmmakers from using his name in the movie title.
The movie was initially scheduled for release on June 14, Friday (tomorrow).
Senior advocate Zal Andhyarujina represented Johar, arguing that an injunction was necessary due to the violation of the personality rights of a celebrity. He emphasized that the limited release of the movie in selective theaters meant that a stay would not significantly affect the filmmakers.
Andhyarujina contended that Johar had no connection to the film and that the unauthorized use of his name in the title violated his personality rights, as well as his rights to publicity and privacy. He further argued that the filmmakers were illegitimately benefiting from Johar’s goodwill and reputation.
Senior advocate Zal Andhyarujina, assisted by advocate Rashmin Khandeka, and briefed by a team from DSK Legal including partners Parag Khandhar and Chandrima Mitra along with associates Pranita Saboo and Anaheeta Verma, appeared for Johar.
