The Delhi High Court has allowed the OTT release of Dhurandhar: The Revenge despite an ongoing copyright dispute linked to one of its songs. The controversy revolves around the recreated track Rang De Lal (Oye Oye), which allegedly uses portions of the iconic 1989 song Tirchi Topiwale from Tridev without proper authorisation.
What Is the Copyright Dispute About?
The legal case was filed by Trimurti Films, the makers of Tridev, against the producers of Dhurandhar: The Revenge and music label T-Series.
According to the complaint, the remix song Rang De Lal allegedly incorporates elements from the classic track Tirchi Topiwale without obtaining valid licensing rights or permission from the original rights holders. The plaintiffs requested the court to stop the OTT release of the film wherever the disputed song appeared.
Why Did Delhi High Court Allow the OTT Release?
Justice Tushar Rao Gedela refused to halt the streaming release, observing that the film had already been released theatrically with the same song included. The court reportedly stated that stopping the OTT release at this stage would create an “incongruous situation.”
The court also considered the significant financial investments already made by producers and distributors based on agreements signed with T-Series. Another important factor was that monetary compensation could still be granted later if copyright infringement is proven during the final hearing.
T-Series Directed to Deposit Rs 50 Lakh
While permitting the OTT release, the court directed T-Series to deposit Rs 50 lakh within four weeks in an interest-bearing Fixed Deposit Receipt (FDR) with the court registrar.
The amount will act as a financial safeguard in case the plaintiffs eventually succeed in proving copyright infringement. Legal experts have described the order as a balanced approach that protects both the film’s release plans and the interests of the original rights holders.
Court Takes Note of T-Series’ Earlier Usage History
During the hearing, T-Series argued that songs from Tridev had previously been used in remix formats for other projects without facing objections from the original creators.
The court acknowledged this argument while deciding on interim relief. However, the larger issue regarding copyright ownership, licensing, and authorisation remains unresolved and will continue to be heard separately.
When and Where Will Dhurandhar: The Revenge Stream?
Following the court’s order, the OTT release of Dhurandhar: The Revenge is expected to move ahead as planned.
The film has already premiered internationally on Netflix under the title Dhurandhar The Revenge (Raw and Undekha). Its India streaming release is expected on JioHotstar next month.
Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film stars Ranveer Singh in the lead role alongside Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal.
Bollywood Remix Copyright Disputes Continue to Rise
The controversy has once again highlighted growing tensions in the Indian entertainment industry over recreated songs, remixes, and legacy music rights.
In recent years, several Bollywood films and music labels have faced criticism and legal challenges over the reuse of classic songs without what original creators consider proper licensing, royalty agreements, or attribution.
The Dhurandhar: The Revenge case is now expected to become one of the most closely watched copyright battles in the industry.
