Bombay High Court upholds stay on the release of Shaadi Ke Director Karan – Johar for using Karan Johar in their title : Bollywood News
The High Court of Bombay confirmed on Wednesday the stay on the release of a film provisionally titled Director of Shaadi Ke Karan – Johar (also wanted to change it in Shaadi director Ke Karan Aur Johar), judging that the title of film breaks the personality and advertising rights of the famous filmmaker Karan Johar.
The High Court of Bombay supports the release of the Liberation of Shaadi Ke Karan – JOHAR for having used Karan Johar in their title
A division bench including chief judge Alok Aradhe and judge Ms. Karnik rejected the appeal filed by the film manufacturer, Sanjay Singh, who challenged a previous order adopted in March by a single bench of the court which interrupted the release of the film. The court argued that Karan Johar enjoys good will and reputation in India and abroad, in particular in the entertainment industry.
In a strongly written observation, the bench noted that “Karan” and “Johar”, when used together, undoubtedly refer to the famous director and producer. The court said that Johar’s name has indeed become a brand and has significant economic value, which alone has the right to exploit commercially. The Court also rejected the argument put forward by the petitioner that he was ready to modify the title by inserting the word “AUR” (and) between the two names, declaring that the use of the two names, Karan and Johar, in any combination is sufficient to create confusion in the mind of the public.
The court observed that such a modification was not sufficient to eliminate the association with Karan Johar and added that the title would always lead the public to believe that the filmmaker is involved or approving the film – an impression which is misleading and unauthorized.
Karan Johar, an eminent figure of Indian cinema, is known for his vast work as a director, producer, talk show and media personality. The Court stressed that its name had acquired substantial brand value and is protected by the principles of advertising and personality rights.
With this verdict, the High Court clearly indicated that the rights of celebrities on their names and brand identities should be respected, in particular when these identities are commercially precious and closely linked to the perception of the public. Following the decision, the stay at the release of Director of Shaadi Ke Karan – Johar It remains in force, effectively blocking its distribution under the disputed title.
Also read: Karan Johar Applaudie on the “Carrière-Déstru” tag: “I can give you detailed data on the number of foreigners we have launched”
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