The Delhi High Court supports Kumar Sanu’s rights in a crucial legal decision. It strengthens the protection of celebrity identity in India’s entertainment industry. On October 11, 2023, Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora ordered social media platforms to remove videos harmful to the veteran playback singer. He also said a detailed judgment would follow, highlighting the need to safeguard an artist’s persona in the digital age.
Kumar Sanu, born Kedarnath Bhattacharya, is one of Bollywood’s most celebrated singers. Active since the late 1980s, he is known for his unique voice and timeless songs. Concerned about the misuse of his name, image, and voice, Sanu approached the court to protect his personality rights. These rights ensure a person controls how their identity is used. He argued that unauthorized usage could confuse fans and harm his reputation.
During the hearing, Sanu’s legal team presented evidence of four fake social media profiles on Facebook and Instagram. These accounts used his name and likeness without permission. The team submitted 334 links showing this misuse. Some links had already disappeared, but the court said impersonation must stop to protect the singer’s image.
Sanu also raised concerns about the commercial misuse of his persona. He fears that people and companies could profit from his work without his consent. With the rise of AI and deepfakes, copying a person’s likeness is now easier than ever. This creates new legal challenges for artists and entertainers.
This case is not unique. Other Bollywood stars, such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, and Hrithik Roshan, have also sought court orders to protect their identities. These actions show a growing shift in how celebrities defend their image and brand in a fast-changing digital world.
Experts believe India’s Right to Publicity laws are evolving alongside technology. Cities like Chandigarh and Mohali are witnessing more legal battles of this kind. Punjab’s strong musical and cinematic culture has long been influenced by artists like Kumar Sanu. His songs continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Protecting personality rights is vital for public figures. These laws help artists maintain control over their image and prevent unauthorized use. They also allow fans to tell the difference between real and fake content online.
Legal experts say such rulings are key for the future of creative industries. Social media can promote artists, but it can also exploit them. Strong legal protections will help preserve artistic integrity. These cases also set important precedents for future rulings on digital impersonation and misuse.
In conclusion, the Delhi High Court supports Kumar Sanu’s rights and sets a strong example of legal protection for artists. This decision not only safeguards Sanu’s legacy but also strengthens the legal framework for personality rights in India. As digital challenges grow, protecting creators’ identities will remain crucial for creativity and public trust.
