Hyderabad court upholds Chiranjeevi’s publicity rights, bans commercial exploitation of his image
The court recognised Chiranjeevi as a top Indian film icon, ruling that unauthorised use of his likeness and name harms his reputation and commercial rights
By - Newsmeter Network
Film actor K Chiranjeevi (File Photo)
Hyderabad: The City Civil Court in Hyderabad has granted an ad-interim injunction in favour of legendary actor Chiranjeevi Konidela, protecting his personality and publicity rights from unauthorised commercial exploitation across all media platforms.
Court order bars unauthorised use
The order, issued on September 26, prohibits all defendants from using Chiranjeevi’s name, stage titles (“MEGA STAR”, “CHIRU”, “ANNAYYA”), image, voice, or other personality traits for any commercial or personal gain.
The court noted that misuse, especially through digital and AI platforms, could cause irreparable damage to the actor’s reputation and financial interests.
Actor moves court against widespread exploitation
Chiranjeevi, a veteran of over four decades in Indian cinema and recipient of Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, sought legal intervention to stop unauthorised merchandising, online content, and AI-generated representations of his identity.
The court recognised him as one of India’s most iconic film personalities, acknowledging that unauthorised use of his likeness and name had affected his public reputation and commercial rights.
Strict enforcement for media and platforms
The injunction directs urgent notice to all respondents, with follow-up hearings scheduled for October 27.
The order warns media organisations, television channels, and digital platforms against using or misrepresenting Chiranjeevi’s identity without explicit consent, under threat of civil and criminal penalties.
Actor collaborates with police to strengthen legal action
On October 11, Chiranjeevi met Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar and shared a copy of the court order.
The discussion emphasised the need for stricter laws to prevent unauthorised use of personality rights and protect privacy.
Sajjanar lauded the actor’s initiative, saying it reinforces the importance of respecting personality and publicity rights in the Indian entertainment industry.
