Publicity Rights/ Celebrity Rights

Creating Similar Voices with AI Infringes Celebrity Rights, Kumar Sanu Case Confirms

In the case of Kumar Sanu Bhattacharjee vs Jammable Limited & Ors, the Delhi High Court restrained multiple AI platforms and online intermediaries from creating or circulating synthetic audio mimicking Kumar Sanu’s voice as well as other aspects of his persona. The court found that voice forms part of a celebrity’s personality along with other characteristics, and cannot be used without authorisation.

Personality Rights Infringement via Deepfakes and Digital Misuse

Concept image showing legal balance scales and a gavel symbolizing justice, with a shadowed human figure in the background and a laptop displaying digital media icons and the text 'Safeguarding personality rights in the age of AI and deepfakes'.

The Bombay High Court’s decision in Suniel Shetty vs John Doe addresses personality rights infringement caused by deepfakes and digital misuse. The judgement clarifies the scope of legal remedies for celebrities and the obligations of online platforms under Indian law.

Delhi HC Orders Takedown of Fake Videos of Journalist Sudhir Chaudhary

Man wearing a white mask sitting at a desk in front of a computer

The Delhi High Court has ordered Meta, Google, and others to promptly remove AI-generated fake videos defaming journalist Sudhir Chaudhary. Recognising the urgent harm, the Court mandated swift takedown and preservation of critical data for investigation.

Alia Bhatt Case: Court Stops Ex-Personal Secretary from Sharing Confidential Info

In the case of Eternal Sunshine Productions Pvt. Ltd. vs Vedika Prakash Shetty, the Bombay High Court stepped in to protect sensitive personal data of actor Ms. Alia Bhatt. The court upheld the confidentiality obligations set out in a release letter and restrained the former personal secretary from disclosing private information to the public or media.

Aishwarya Rai Gets Court Relief Against Deepfakes, Fake Merchandise, and Online Impersonation

In the case of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan vs Aishwaryaworld.Com, the Delhi High Court restrained several websites, online sellers, and digital content creators from misusing the identity of the celebrity through unauthorised merchandise, websites, AI-generated impersonations, and obscene deepfakes.

Isha Foundation Secures Interim Relief in Defamation Case, Next Hearing in September

Illustration showing a YouTube play button, legal gavel, and a calendar marked for September 9.

After securing interim relief in a defamation case involving a viral YouTube video, Isha Foundation awaits further proceedings now adjourned to 9th September 2025. No significant development occurred in the May session, and the interim order continues to apply.

Telugu Actor Manchu Vishnu gets a John Doe Order to prevent misuse of his Name, voice and Likeness

The Delhi High Court has issued an interim John Doe order in favour of Telugu actor Manchu Vishnu to prevent unauthorised use of his name, voice, and likeness by content creators. This case highlights judicial protection of personality and publicity rights under Indian law.

Court halts release of film exploiting Karan Johar’s celebrity status

The Bombay High Court halted the release of a film using Karan Johar’s name, citing unauthorised exploitation of his celebrity status. The court recognised his personality rights and restrained the defendants from using his name or attributes in the film.

Use of Akshay Tanna’s persona and reputation on social media for investment scams taken down

The Delhi High Court has ordered the removal of social media accounts impersonating Akshay Tanna for investment scams. The Court granted an exparte injunction, restraining further misuse of his persona for fraudulent purposes.

Weekly Copyright, Media, and Entertainment Law Updates

This week’s bulletin covers copyright infringement actions against political and entertainment entities, with detailed legal developments in India and abroad. The updates are provided by BananaIP Counsels to promote awareness of intellectual property law.