Karan Johar moves Bombay HC against film using his name in title: Exploiting goodwill and reputation

Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar moved the Bombay High Court against the makers of the Hindi film ‘Shaadi ke Director Karan aur Johar,’ seeking to stop them from using his name in the film's title. The plea also requested an urgent stay on the film's release on June 14, 2024, before Justice RI Chagla's bench, which agreed to hear the plea on June 13.

The petition requests a permanent injunction and restraining order against the filmmakers from using Johar's name in the film's title. Johar stated he has no connection with the film or its makers, who are unlawfully using his name

Johar emphasized that the film's title directly references his name, violating his personal rights, as well as his rights to publicity and privacy. He argued that by using his 'brand name' without authorization, the filmmakers are exploiting his goodwill and reputation.

The lawsuit noted that the film is set for release on June 14, with its trailer and posters already distributed in public areas and on social media. Johar claimed these promotional materials were causing irreparable harm to his goodwill and reputation.

‘These trailers and posters are causing and continue to cause irreparable harm to Johar's goodwill and reputation. Furthermore, the release of the film with a title containing his brand name 'Karan Johar,' in whole or in part, will cause irreparable harm to the goodwill and reputation he has built through substantial investments of time, effort, and money,’ the lawsuit stated.

Karan Johar’s work front

Karan Johar’s next venture, ‘Kill’, will be released in theatres on July 5. The film, directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, stars Lakshya, Raghav Juyal, and Tanya Maniktala in lead roles. The story of the film follows a train passenger enroute to New Delhi. However, the journey takes a dramatic turn when a duo of commandos must combat an army of invading bandits, turning the train into a battleground.

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