In a significant development, on May 6, Pooja Entertainment (India) Limited has obtained interim protection from the Hon’ble Civil Judge (Senior Division)-I, Katihar, Bihar Court. Proceedings were initiated against Tips Music Limited and other connected parties, including those associated with the films mentioned in the case. The court has directed the parties to maintain status quo with respect to the alleged unauthorized use and commercial exploitation of Pooja Entertainment’s films, music catalog and underlying intellectual property rights.
Pooja Entertainment The court order was seen as a landmark moment for producer rights; Protection of film IP and legacy rights takes center stage
The order is being seen not just as an interim legal relief for a production house, but as a watershed moment for the larger producer community.
The matter is related to the rights related to some famous films including Pooja Entertainment. coolie number 1 (1995), hero number 1 (1996), wife number 1 (1999), big mian small mian (1998), your magic worked (2000) and i have something to say (2001). It also deals with the proposed release and exploitation of the upcoming film If you are young then you have to fall in love. As things stand, the film remains under interim status quo and protective orders passed by the court.
According to Pooja Entertainment, the company approached the court after discovering alleged unauthorized exploitation, monetization and commercial use of its films, music rights, sound recordings and underlying works on streaming, broadcasting, digital platforms and other commercial channels.
The court granted interim protection, saying that failure to provide immediate relief could result in serious and irreparable injury to the plaintiff’s proprietary and statutory rights.
For the creator community, the development holds significance because it underlines a larger principle: heritage film libraries, music catalogues, sound recordings and related works cannot be commercially exploited or reused without proper authorization from the rightful owner.
Pooja Entertainment has said that this matter is not just about money. According to the company, a film library represents years of struggle, investment, creativity, goodwill and legacy. Therefore, unauthorized use can lead to financial loss as well as emotional, reputational and imaginary damage.
The company has reiterated that it will take all necessary legal steps to protect its intellectual property, creative properties, films, music and underlying works from unauthorized exploitation.
The matter is currently pending before the Honorable Court.
