Audio entertainment platform Pocket FM has taken legal action against video streaming giant Disney+ Hotstar in the Delhi High Court for allegedly infringing on its copyright of the audio series ‘Yakshini’. Pocket FM is seeking an interim injunction against Disney+ Hotstar’s parent company Novi Digital Entertainment, requesting the court to order the removal of the trailer for the web series.
The case is scheduled to be heard on Thursday by Justice Neena Bansal Krishna. Disney+ Hotstar is expected to present its response to the court during the hearing.
According to Pocket FM’s plea filed on June 11, the platform claims ownership of the copyright for ‘Yakshini’, which has been available on its platform since May 2021. The company argues that Disney+ Hotstar’s Telugu web series, also titled ‘Yakshini’, bears significant similarities to its own audio series.
Disney+ Hotstar has already launched the promotional material for the web series, set to begin streaming on June 14. Pocket FM alleges that the portrayal of ‘Yakshini’ in Disney+ Hotstar’s series closely resembles its own depiction. Both series apparently feature Yakshini’s arrival from another world as a key plot element.
This legal battle between Pocket FM and Disney+ Hotstar highlights the significance of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. Copyright infringement cases like these serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting original creative works from unauthorized use.
In the digital age, where content can be easily shared and replicated, content creators must be vigilant in safeguarding their intellectual property. The outcome of this case will likely set a precedent for future disputes over copyright issues in the Indian entertainment sector.
It is crucial for all parties involved to respect and uphold intellectual property laws to foster a fair and competitive creative landscape. As technology continues to advance, it is essential for legal frameworks to adapt accordingly to address emerging challenges in the protection of intellectual property rights.
The Delhi High Court’s ruling on this case will not only have implications for Pocket FM and Disney+ Hotstar but also for the broader entertainment industry in India. It will be interesting to see how the court navigates the complexities of copyright law in the context of digital content creation and distribution.