Entertainment meets law once again. This time, the reality TV giant Bigg Boss 19 finds itself caught in a serious copyright battle—one that could cost the creators ₹2 crore and a big dent in credibility.
What Happened?
On September 27, 2025, Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL India) sent a legal notice to Endemol Shine India – the production house behind Bigg Boss.
The allegation? Unauthorized use of two Bollywood hits:
- Chikni Chameli (Agneepath)
- Dhat Teri Ki (Gori Tere Pyaar Mein)
These songs were allegedly played in Episode 11 (Sept 3, 2025) without obtaining the mandatory public performance license.
The Legal Angle
PPL India oversees rights for record labels. In the notice, they demanded ₹2 crore as compensation, invoking the Copyright Act, 1957.
Here’s how the law comes in:
- Section 30 – Governs licensing of copyrighted works.
- Sections 51 & 55 – Deal with copyright infringement and remedies.
- Section 63 – Even prescribes criminal liability for willful infringement.
So, if proven, this isn’t just a money issue—it could mean injunctions, damages, and even accountability of producers/directors.
Who’s in the Line of Fire?
The notice specifically names:
- Thomas Gousset
- Nicolas Chazarain
- Deepak Dhar
This raises a serious question: Can individual directors be held personally liable for corporate actions? Indian copyright law leaves room for such accountability in certain cases.
Bigger Consequences
This isn’t just about Bigg Boss. Legal experts warn:
- Broadcasters and OTT platforms must secure proper music licenses before airing content.
- Failure to comply could bring crippling financial damages and restrictions on future productions.
- This case might become a precedent, reshaping how entertainment companies approach copyright compliance.
Current Status
As of now, the creators of Bigg Boss 19 have not issued an official response. If a settlement isn’t reached, this could head straight to courtroom litigation.
Why This Matters
India’s entertainment industry often takes copyright lightly. But this case is a reminder: copyright law bites hard. Whether you’re a law student, media house, or music lover, the takeaway is simple—respect intellectual property or pay the price.
