**MADRAS HIGH COURT REFUSES TO PASS EX-PARTE INTERIM ORDER IN ILAIYARAAJA’S SUIT OVER SONG USE IN MRS. AND MR. **
Court Denies Immediate Relief in Music Rights Case
In a significant ruling, the Madras High Court on Monday declined to grant an ex-parte interim injunction in a copyright infringement suit filed by legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja. The case concerns the alleged unauthorized use of one of his musical compositions in the web series Mrs. and Mr.
The Lawsuit: Background and Claims
Ilaiyaraaja approached the court alleging that the producers of the series had used one of his iconic songs without obtaining proper permission or license. He sought immediate restraining orders to stop further streaming of the show until the issue was resolved.
High Court's Stand
Justice Anitha Sumanth, hearing the plea, stated that such matters require responses from all parties involved. The court noted that a unilateral decision without hearing the defendants would not be appropriate in a copyright matter involving commercial rights.
“The issue deserves full hearing before any injunctive relief can be considered,” the judge said.
Next Steps in the Case
The court issued notices to the series' producers and related parties, directing them to file their responses. The matter will be listed for a detailed hearing in the coming weeks.
Ilaiyaraaja and Music Rights History
Ilaiyaraaja has been a strong proponent of musical copyright enforcement, frequently initiating legal action to safeguard his work. His cases have spotlighted the legal ambiguities around music rights in Indian cinema, particularly for retro content used in modern digital formats.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Ilaiyaraaja’s claim against Mrs. and Mr.?
He alleges the series used one of his songs without legal permission, violating copyright laws.
Did the court grant an immediate order in his favor?
No. The Madras High Court refused to pass an ex-parte interim order, instead seeking responses from all parties.
What does ‘ex-parte interim order’ mean?
It refers to a temporary legal order passed in favor of one party without hearing the other side. The court chose not to grant this in Ilaiyaraaja’s case.
Is this the first time Ilaiyaraaja has filed such a suit?
No. Ilaiyaraaja has a history of defending his copyright through legal means, especially for older compositions.
What happens next in this legal matter?
The case will proceed with a full hearing after the respondents file their replies. A decision on interim relief may follow.
Why is this case significant?
It raises important questions about copyright enforcement in India’s growing OTT and digital media space.
Published on: July 16, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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