The Delhi High Court on Friday (12 June) issued notice to the makers of the proposed film Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy on a plea filed by Bollywood actor Salman Khan, who has sought to restrain the film’s production, promotion and release, alleging violation of his personality rights.
Justice Neena Bansal Krishna directed the filmmakers to file their response and listed the matter for further hearing on June 19.
Background of the Case
The dispute arose after the release of the film’s poster and teaser. Khan alleged that the promotional material contains direct and identifiable references to him without his consent.
Appearing for the actor, Advocate Nizam Pasha argued that the film sought to commercially exploit Khan’s public image and personality rights. According to the plea, a character shown in the promotional material bears a strong resemblance to the actor and is depicted wearing a bracelet associated with his public persona.
The actor has further claimed that the proposed film draws inspiration from events linked to the 1998 blackbuck poaching case and contains references that may lead viewers to associate the story with him.
During the hearing, Khan’s counsel submitted that the film was being developed by relying on the actor’s identity and public image.
“We are asking for an injunction on this film. A film is sought to be made exploiting my personality rights,” the counsel told the court while referring to an earlier order protecting Khan’s personality rights.
The court inquired about the film’s release schedule. Counsel informed the bench that while a trailer had been released, no official release date had yet been announced.
The court did not grant any immediate relief to the actor. Instead, Justice Krishna observed that the filmmakers must first be given an opportunity to present their stand before any interim order could be considered.
“The opposite side must be heard,” the bench indicated while deciding to issue notice on the interim injunction application.
The Delhi High Court issued notice to the producers and other respondents on Salman Khan’s interim application seeking to restrain the development, promotion and release of Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy.
No interim stay was granted at this stage, and the matter has been listed for further hearing on June 19.
Case Title: Salman Khan v. John Doe & Others
