In a development that has caught the attention of trade and industry, Jio Studios (the media and entertainment division of Reliance Industries Limited) has issued a public notice cautioning the film, media and entertainment industry about its contractual rights relating to Ali Abbas Zafar Films LLP and filmmaker Ali Abbas Zafar.
BREAKING: Jio Studios issues public notice; Ali Abbas Zafar declares ‘first and paramount lien’ on business earnings of Films LLP
The notice published by King Stubb & Kasiva, Advocates & Attorneys in Atul Mohan’s Complete Cinema magazine on January 17, 2026, said that as per the contractual arrangement between Jio Studios, Ali Abbas Zafar Films LLP and Ali Abbas Zafar with effect from September 30, 2025, Jio Studios will have “the first and has and continues to hold a paramount lien”. The nature and in whatever form, whether present or future, is described in the Notice as “Commercial Engagement”.
Importantly, the notice indicates that the lien is not limited to just the projects set up with Jio Studios. It claims coverage on earnings arising from a wide range of media and entertainment activities involving Ali Abbas Zafar Films LLP as well as Ali Abbas Zafar in his individual capacity, i.e. spanning projects, ventures, commitments, productions, collaborations and exploitations, whether Jio Studios is involved or not. The notice further indicates that the claim also extends to projects undertaken through other entities where the nominated partners or directors of the LLP have a stake, including entities that exist today and may be incorporated later. Furthermore, it also includes the earnings of the nominated partners/directors of Ali Abbas Zafar Films LLP from any source in the media and entertainment sector.
The public notice states that the said lien is absolute, perpetual, enforceable and will remain enforceable by contract and operation of law until the full discharge of all outstanding obligations owed to Jio Studios along with applicable interest. It advises producers, studios, financiers, OTT platforms, broadcasters, talent agencies and other industry participants to take into account the stated liens when considering or entering into such business arrangements and to treat related parties fairly. Where necessary, Jio Studios calls on stakeholders to inform any such arrangement before finalizing or implementing it, so that the rights of all parties, including Jio Studios, are not adversely affected.
What does “first and foremost lien” mean?
In simple words, lien is a security/legal right over receipts or money to secure payment of dues. The words “first and foremost” denote top priority, meaning that Jio Studios is insisting that it should be paid from the covered earnings, before other claims or subsequent security interests.
The notice ends by saying that Jio Studios reserves the right to enforce liens and pursue remedies available under applicable law.
Ali and Jio together
Ali Abbas Zafar once collaborated with Jio Studios bloody dad (2023). The Shahid Kapoor-starrer released directly on JioCinema and was produced by Jio Studios, Ali Abbas Zafar’s AAZ Films and others. This action entertainer was directed by Ali Abbas Zafar.
