Why did the Madras High Court stop the use of Ilaiyaraaja's songs in the movie 'Dude'?

The court restrained the use because the songs were distorted and utilized without Ilaiyaraaja's permission, infringing his copyrights.

Which songs by Ilaiyaraaja are involved in the 'Dude' movie dispute?

The songs 'Karutha Machaan' and '100 Varusham Indha Maappillaiyum Ponnumdhaan' are subject to the court's injunction.

What are Ilaiyaraaja's rights regarding his music's use in films?

Ilaiyaraaja is entitled to protect his musical works from distortion and unauthorized exploitation under the Copyrights Act.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Ilaiyaraaja Song Rights: Court Restrains 'Dude' Makers

Ilaiyaraaja Song Rights: Court Restrains 'Dude' Makers

28 Nov

•

Summary

Madras High Court halted use of two Ilaiyaraaja songs.
Songs were distorted and used without composer's permission.
Court action taken to protect composer's rights and reputation.

Ilaiyaraaja Song Rights: Court Restrains 'Dude' Makers

The Madras High Court has issued an interim injunction, preventing the producers of the Tamil movie 'Dude' from utilizing two iconic songs by music maestro Ilaiyaraaja. The court's decision was based on a prima facie case that the composer's musical works were distorted and used without his permission, infringing upon his special rights.

The specific songs facing the restraint are 'Karutha Machaan' from 'Pudhu Nellu Pudhu Naathu' and '100 Varusham Indha Maappillaiyum Ponnumdhaan' from 'Panakkaran'. The court emphasized that the unauthorized and altered use of these songs was detrimental to the integrity and reputation of Ilaiyaraaja's original compositions.

This legal action underscores the importance of copyright protection and the rights of artists to prevent distortion and unauthorized exploitation of their work. The court has adjourned the hearing to January 7, 2026, for the film's producers to present their defense.