The Bombay High Court on Thursday restrained the makers of the film “Shaadi Ke Director Karan Aur Johar” from using Bollywood director and producer Karan Johar’s name and personal attributes in the title of the film. The court noted that this unauthorised use violated Johar’s fundamental rights.
The film was scheduled for release on Friday.
Justice Riyaz Chagla ruled that the film cannot be released in theatres or on any social media platforms until references to Johar’s name and attributes are removed. Johar’s lawyers argued that his name was being used without permission, with malicious intent for unjust and unlawful gain.
Johar sought a permanent injunction and restraining order against the producers, IndiaPride Advisory and Sanjay Singh, and writer-director Bablu Singh, to stop them from using his name in the film’s title.
Justice Chagla noted that the film’s title and trailer clearly referred to Johar, given his status as a renowned celebrity and successful filmmaker. The bench emphasised that unauthorised use of a person’s name or attributes is a violation of fundamental rights.
The filmmakers did not appear in court, despite being notified. Justice Chagla highlighted their lack of response and upheld Johar’s personal rights. The court concluded that a strong case had been made to protect Johar’s rights and stopped the film’s makers from using his name unlawfully.
The court has scheduled further hearings for July 10.