Sun Sep 15 14:30:22 UTC 2024: ## Filmmakers Step Up Efforts to Protect Intellectual Property Rights in India

**New Delhi:** In an increasingly digital and globalized entertainment landscape, Indian filmmakers and content creators are taking proactive steps to safeguard their intellectual property rights (IPR). This comes amidst a rise in unauthorized use of titles, logos, characters, and other critical elements, particularly through digital piracy and merchandise sales.

The case for IPR protection has become even more urgent due to advanced technologies that can facilitate the theft of monetization opportunities. Notable examples include:

* **”Bramayugam”:** The makers of the Malayalam film, starring Mammootty, have trademarked the title, logo, music, dialogues, and other elements, threatening legal action against any unauthorized commercial use.
* **”Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah”:** The Delhi High Court issued a John Doe order last month to protect the sitcom’s intellectual property from unknown parties.
* **”Baahubali”:** The franchise has secured extensive trademark protection, covering the movie title, logos, character names, and catchphrases.

**Industry experts attribute this proactive approach to several factors:**

* **Technological advancements:** Digital piracy has evolved, necessitating stronger measures to protect content. Artificial intelligence and machine learning also present new risks of unauthorized use and manipulation.
* **Financial risks:** Producers recognize the long-term value of their creations, not only for artistic purposes but also for merchandise and commercialization.
* **Global market:** Indian films and TV shows are targeting international audiences, requiring robust IPR protection for global distribution deals, franchise creation, and international collaborations.

**Key legal mechanisms for IP protection include:**

* **Copyright:** Prevents unauthorized use of content, including scenes, story, songs, etc.
* **Trademark:** Protects titles, characters, logos, and other elements associated with a specific brand.

Producers are employing a range of strategies to combat piracy and unauthorized streaming, including:

* **Registering trademarks:** With bodies like the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) to avoid title disputes.
* **Embedding watermarks:** To identify pirated content.
* **Using digital rights management (DRM) tools:** To restrict access to copyrighted material.
* **Securing international copyrights:** To protect content in global markets.

Legal experts emphasize the importance of protecting not only the core content, but also ancillary and derivative rights, such as character rights, iconic phrases, and dialogues. They also note the growing importance of safeguarding the intellectual property of controversial personalities, particularly from unauthorized depiction.

This shift in approach reflects the growing awareness among Indian film and TV producers of the significant value of protecting their intellectual property in today’s competitive and rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.

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