Rakshit Shetty Faces Legal Setback Over Copyright Violation in Bachelor Party

Kannada actor-director Rakshit Shetty and his production house Paramvah Studios have been fined Rs 5 lakh by the Delhi High Court for copyright infringement related to their film Bachelor Party. The court emphasized the importance of adhering to copyright laws, rejecting claims that the song usage was too minor to require a license. The case was initiated by MRT Music, which owns the rights to the songs used in the film. Despite previous orders to comply, delays led to contempt proceedings. This ruling highlights the significance of respecting copyright regulations in the film industry.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 1, 2026, 19:09 IST

Legal Issues for Rakshit Shetty and Paramvah Studios

Kannada actor and director Rakshit Shetty, along with his production company Paramvah Studios, is currently embroiled in significant legal challenges. Recent reports indicate that the Delhi High Court has imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on Shetty for unauthorized use of two songs in his film, Bachelor Party.

Delhi High Court's Ruling on Copyright Infringement

The court refrained from imposing jail time but emphasized the necessity of adhering to copyright laws and previous court orders. Justice Tejas Karia found Rakshit Shetty's production company guilty of copyright infringement and willful non-compliance, rejecting the defense's claim that the song usage was too minor to require a license.

The court noted that the song Omme Ninnanu was featured for approximately 31 seconds, while Nyaya Ellide was played for about 7 seconds. It asserted that even a single frame from a copyrighted work cannot be utilized without authorization. The Delhi High Court reiterated that copyright holders possess exclusive rights, irrespective of the duration of usage. However, the court showed some leniency after considering an affidavit from the filmmakers expressing remorse. Instead of imposing imprisonment for contempt of a prior order, the court mandated both Shetty and his production house to pay a fine of Rs 5 lakh within a fortnight.

Details of the Copyright Case Involving Bachelor Party

The case was initiated by MRT Music, the rights holder for the songs in question. The company contended that the tracks, which are protected as sound recordings and literary and musical works, were incorporated into the film without authorization. One song was played in the background on a television during a scene, while the other was performed in a classroom setting, contributing to the narrative.

Despite a 2024 directive requiring the filmmakers to pay Rs 20 lakh and eliminate the unauthorized content, there was a delay in compliance, prompting contempt proceedings. The defense argued that the usage was 'de minimis,' or too insignificant to warrant concern. However, the court dismissed this argument, stating that the songs were intentionally included rather than accidentally.

The ruling also stipulated that the previously paid Rs 20 lakh should be transferred to MRT Music, in addition to the new Rs 5 lakh penalty for the delay.

Rakshit Shetty's Career Highlights

On the professional front, Rakshit Shetty is a celebrated writer, film producer, and director, known for his acclaimed works such as 777 Charlie, Kirik Party, Sapta Saagaradaache Ello, and the cult classic Ulidavaru Kandanthe.