JioStar Takes Legal Action Against Zee Entertainment Over Film Rights

JioStar has filed a lawsuit against Zee Entertainment, alleging unauthorized broadcasts of Bollywood films it owns rights to. This legal action comes amidst an ongoing $1 billion arbitration over a cricket licensing deal. JioStar claims Zee has repeatedly infringed on its rights by airing films featuring major stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan. The dispute escalates as Zee also pursues its own lawsuit against JioStar for unauthorized use of music, seeking $3 million in damages. The legal battles highlight the intense competition and complexities in the entertainment industry.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 15, 2026, 18:06 IST

Legal Dispute Between JioStar and Zee Entertainment

JioStar has launched legal proceedings against Zee Entertainment, accusing it of unauthorized broadcasting of Bollywood films for which JioStar holds the rights. The entertainment venture, backed by billionaire Mukesh Ambani and a collaboration between Reliance and Walt Disney, is already embroiled in a $1 billion arbitration case in London concerning a failed cricket licensing agreement from 2024.

In a detailed 120-page legal document, JioStar claims that Zee has aired 12 different films approximately 20 times, featuring major Bollywood stars such as Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan. JioStar's plea describes Zee as a 'habitual infringer' and accuses it of persistently engaging in unauthorized broadcasts and exploitation of these films.

The committee overseeing the case has summoned Zee to appear on May 25, warning that non-compliance will be interpreted as a refusal to engage in mediation. Earlier in April, Zee Entertainment had initiated its own lawsuit against JioStar, alleging unauthorized use of its copyrighted music following the expiration of licensing agreements.

According to reports, Zee's lawsuit, filed in New Delhi on April 14, includes an extensive 1,800-page document claiming that JioStar utilized music from its catalog over 50 times after certain licensing agreements lapsed in 2024 and 2025. Zee is pursuing $3 million in damages from JioStar for these alleged infringements.