Good News! Bollywood Music Can Be Played At Indian Weddings, Copyright Issues Removed (Details Inside)
However, playing Bollywood songs at events often led to trouble as parties were asked to pay royalty fees. But now, the Union government has taken a crucial step in addressing this concern. They have issued a directive allowing the playing of Bollywood music at wedding ceremonies and related festivities, relieving event planners, hotels, and individuals from legal disputes and financial strains caused by copyright firms' demands. With this new directive, the hospitality industry can now enjoy playing Bollywood music freely, focusing on creating memorable and joyous occasions without the fear of copyright infringement actions.
Although the Copyright Act of 1957 already permits the playing of copyrighted music at functions like weddings, copyright societies continued to demand royalties, leading to conflicts. In response to public complaints, the Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) took action. On July 24, they issued a public notice clarifying that playing Bollywood music at wedding ceremonies and related festivities would no longer attract copyright infringement claims or royalty demands.
This relief is grounded in section 52 (1) (za) of the Copyright Act, explicitly stating that playing or communicating a literary, dramatic, or musical work during legitimate religious or official ceremonies organized by the central/state government or any local authority does not constitute copyright infringement. The provision extends to marriage processions and social festivities connected with weddings, considering them religious ceremonies.
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As a result, the playing of copyrighted music at such occasions is now legally permitted, bringing much-needed freedom and joy to Indian weddings.
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