Why Was Ilaiyaraaja's Name Removed from 'Mrs. and Mr.' Promotions?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, music maestro Ilaiyaraaja's name has been removed from the promotional content of the film 'Mrs. and Mr.' following a legal dispute. The composer claims unauthorized use of his work and seeks justice from the courts. What does this mean for the film and its creators?
Key Takeaways
- Ilaiyaraaja's legal action emphasizes the importance of respecting artist rights.
- Unauthorized use of creative work can lead to serious legal repercussions.
- Accurate representation in promotional materials is crucial for maintaining public trust.
- The film industry must prioritize ethical practices to avoid similar disputes.
- Legends like Ilaiyaraaja are vital to the cultural landscape and deserve protection.
Chennai, July 23 (NationPress) The renowned music composer Ilaiyaraaja has had his name eliminated from all promotional materials associated with the newly released film Mrs. and Mr. after he approached the Madras High Court, claiming unauthorized use of his name and creative work.
During the civil suit hearing initiated by the iconic composer, Vanitha Film Productions informed the court that his name had been taken down from promotional content on Instagram and other platforms. Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy acknowledged the submission made by the production house’s attorney, Sridhar Moorthy. Counsel for Ilaiyaraaja, A. Saravanan, contended that his client had no association with the film whatsoever and that the use of his name constituted misrepresentation.
The court learned that the production team had used the song Sivarathri, which Ilaiyaraaja composed for the 1990 film Michael Madana Kama Rajan, in Mrs. and Mr. without his consent. The promotional materials incorrectly credited him as the film's composer, leading to public misunderstanding. In his lawsuit, Ilaiyaraaja demanded the immediate removal of the song Sivarathri from Mrs. and Mr., which was released on July 11, alongside a permanent injunction to prevent the production house from exploiting his personality rights for promotional activities. He also sought a court order for the producers to reveal any profits derived from the unauthorized use of his name and work.
Along with the main suit, the composer filed two interim applications—one for the removal of the song from the film and another to restrict screening, distribution, or broadcasting of the movie featuring the disputed song. In response, the producer's counsel claimed that Ilaiyaraaja mistakenly identified Vanitha Vijayakumar as the producer, while promotional materials list Jovika Vijayakumar as the actual producer. Moorthy mentioned that Sony Music Entertainment, which holds the rights to Sivarathri, should also be included in the case. The judge granted Ilaiyaraaja until August 18 to file necessary amendments and add Sony Music as a defendant.
Point of View
I present an unbiased perspective on the ongoing legal tussle involving Ilaiyaraaja and the film 'Mrs. and Mr.' This case highlights the critical importance of respecting artists' rights in the entertainment industry. Upholding integrity in promotions is essential for maintaining trust in creative collaborations.
NationPress
24/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Ilaiyaraaja's name removed from 'Mrs. and Mr.'?
Ilaiyaraaja's name was removed after he filed a lawsuit claiming unauthorized use of his name and work related to the film.
What legal actions did Ilaiyaraaja take?
He sought an injunction to stop the use of his name and work in the film's promotions and demanded the removal of a song he composed.
Who is the actual producer of 'Mrs. and Mr.'?
The promotional materials identify Jovika Vijayakumar as the actual producer, contrary to Ilaiyaraaja's claims.
What song was used in the film without permission?
The song 'Sivarathri,' composed by Ilaiyaraaja for 'Michael Madana Kama Rajan,' was used in 'Mrs. and Mr.' without a license.
What is the next step in the legal proceedings?
Ilaiyaraaja has been granted time until August 18 to amend his suit and add Sony Music as a defendant.
