Veteran music maestro Ilaiyaraaja on Monday secured a significant victory in a legal battle which ensued over the protection of the copyright of his musical creations. The Madras High Court (HC) on Monday restrained the makers of GV Prakash Kumar-starrer Happy Raj from using the evergreen song, Pothuvaaga En Manasu Thangam, composed originally by the music legend. The court ruled in favour of Ilaiyaraaja, after he alleged that the track had been roped into the film without his consent.
The court’s verdict underscores the long-standing law that music compositions cannot be used commercially without prior authorisation. The ruling comes months after Happy Raj completed its theatrical run, having been released on March 27 this year.
Music composer Ilaiyaraaja
Court upholds composer’s copyright claim
As per media reports, Ilaiyaraaja knocked the doors of the Madras HC after discovering that Pothuvaaga En Manasu Thangam, originally featured in the classic Tamil movie Murattu Kaalai, had been used in Happy Raj without seeking his permission.
After hearing the case, the HC restrained the film’s makers from using the song, marking yet another milestone in the composer’s relentless efforts to shield his intellectual property rights.
Although the film was done with its theatrical run, the order is likely to impact its future distribution across television, digital streaming and other platforms.
Notably, the verdict has also strengthened Ilaiyaraaja’s consistent legal stand that the unauthorised use of his musical works amounted to copyright infringement and cannot be permitted.
About Happy Raj
A still from Happy Raj
The Maria Raja Elanchezian directorial, Happy Raj features GV Prakash Kumar and Sri Gouri Priya in the lead roles. The film also marked the comeback of actor Abbas to Tamil film industry and boasts an ensemble cast comprising George Maryan, Geetha Kailasam, Prarthana, Madurai Muthu, Adhirchi Arun and Devi Mahesh.
The film’s story revolves around Anandraj, fondly known as Happy Raj, who relocates to Bengaluru in a bid to leave behind the social stigma attached to his family. His life takes a fresh turn after meeting Kavya, with the narrative blending romance and emotional drama while exploring themes of identity, dignity and acceptance.