Dhurandhar 2 Song Controversy Heads to Mediation, Court Declines Interim Relief

Why It Matters

The ruling underscores the growing enforcement of music copyrights in Bollywood and could reshape licensing practices for OTT releases.

Key Takeaways

• Trimurti Films sues over alleged unauthorized use of “Tirchi Topi Wale.”
• Delhi High Court denies interim injunction, pushes parties to mediation.
• Defendants must maintain accounts of exploitation from March 19 onward.
• Outcome may set precedent for Bollywood song licensing on digital platforms.

Pulse Analysis

India’s film industry has long relied on music as a commercial engine, but the legal framework governing song rights is evolving. The 1989 hit “Tirchi Topi Wale” from the cult classic Tridev remains under the control of Trimurti Films, illustrating how legacy catalogues retain value decades later. When Dhurandhar 2 incorporated a similar‑sounding track, the plaintiff argued that the reuse violated copyright law, prompting a lawsuit that brings attention to the need for clear clearance processes before a song reaches the screen.

The Delhi High Court’s decision to deny an interim injunction reflects a cautious approach, balancing the plaintiff’s claim against potential disruption to the film’s distribution. By ordering the defendants to maintain a record of all exploitation from the March 19 release, the court ensures transparency while allowing the parties to explore settlement through mediation. This procedural direction signals to producers that courts may favor alternative dispute resolution in complex intellectual‑property cases, especially when the commercial impact is uncertain and the film’s OTT rollout is not imminent.

For the broader Bollywood ecosystem, the case could set a benchmark for how music licensing is handled in the digital age. OTT platforms have amplified the reach of film soundtracks, making unauthorized use more consequential. A precedent that favors rigorous accounting and mediation may push studios to secure comprehensive rights upfront, reducing litigation risk. Moreover, the outcome may influence how music labels negotiate royalties and enforce copyrights, ultimately shaping the economics of Indian film music in an increasingly streaming‑driven market.