Rising vigilance from producers to combat digital piracy and merchandise theft

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Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. New Delhi: Filmmakers and content creators behind popular film and television shows are stepping up efforts to protect their intellectual property rights (IPR). These include unauthorised use of the title’s logo, dialogues and mannerisms of characters, and other critical elements.

Legal experts say unscrupulous persons have often attempted to piggyback on the unique reputation and identity of such works for unjust gains, particularly via digital piracy or for merchandise sales. The case for IPR protection has become stronger now with the advent of powerful technologies that can help steal monetisation opportunities and lead to losses for producers. For instance, Night Shift Studios and YNOT Studios, the makers of Malayalam film Bramayugam, starring Mammootty, have issued a statement saying they have trademarked the title and logo of the film, and any unauthorized use of these or the music, dialogues and so on for commercial use, will be dealt with legally.

It was released in February 2024 and was a hit, making close to ₹90 crore at the box office. Then, the Delhi High Court issued a John Doe order last month to protect the intellectual property of popular sitcom Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. A John Doe order is passed against the world at large and allows a person to take legal action against unknown parties.

Similarly, the Baahubali franchise took extensive trademark protection. The producers not only registered trademarks for the movie title but also for related merchandise such as logos, character names, and catchphrases. Industry experts say producers are now more vigilant in registering film and TV show titles with bodies like the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association