The Delhi High Court allowed the release of the film Doosra, despite Sourav Ganguly’s claim that it infringes on his personal and commercial rights. The court emphasized that the hearing regarding Ganguly’s petition will continue on Friday.
The Delhi High Court refused to halt the distribution of Doosra, a movie that former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly claimed violated his commercial and personal rights, on Thursday. The movie is supposed to open in theaters on Friday. The High Court made it plain that the hearing on Ganguly’s plea would proceed on Friday while stating that it was not preventing the release of the movie. Ganguly has petitioned the High Court, claiming that the movie breaches his personality and commercial rights by making references to his identity and cricket career.
The movie’s theatrical premiere has not been stopped, according to Justice Dinesh Bhatt. “I have said no stay, so the film can go on,” Justice Bhatt said as per the report. The matter will be heard again on October 23.
Sourav Ganguly’s Plea
His plea refers to his leadership of the Indian cricket team, the historic 2002 NatWest Series final against England and his iconic shirtless celebration from the Lord’s balcony following India’s victory. The former India captain has sought legal protection against the alleged unauthorised commercial exploitation of aspects of his personality through the film.
The dispute raises questions about the extent to which filmmakers can draw upon the lives, achievements and publicly recognised moments of prominent sportspersons while making cinematic portrayals, and when such references may attract claims of infringement of personality rights.
Ganguly’s shirtless celebration at Lord’s after India chased down England’s target in the 2002 NatWest Series final remains one of the most enduring images in Indian cricket. The victory, achieved under his captaincy, became a defining moment for the Indian team and is widely remembered for its dramatic finish.