Delhi High Court Allows Doosra to Release Amid Sourav Ganguly's Legal Challenge
Court Decision on Doosra's Release
The Delhi High Court has decided not to impose an interim ban on the theatrical release of the film Doosra, despite a legal dispute initiated by former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly. The lawsuit, which involves Luv Films LLP, claims that the film infringes on Ganguly's personality rights and exploits his likeness without permission.
During the court session on Thursday, Justice Dinesh Bhatt made it clear that the film's release would not be halted. While the court has allowed the film to be screened in theaters, the legal proceedings are ongoing, with the next hearing set for October 23. Doosra, featuring Plabita Borthakur in the lead role, is scheduled to hit cinemas on the same date.
Legal Dispute and Context
In the lawsuit, Ganguly and Luv Films LLP argue that the promotional content for Doosra misappropriates the former captain's identity, particularly highlighting his leadership during the 2002 NatWest Series final and his famous shirtless celebration at Lord’s. The plaintiffs assert that these references are being used to attract commercial interest and could mislead audiences into thinking Ganguly is involved with or endorses the film. Additionally, they pointed out a prior agreement from August 2021, where Ganguly granted Luv Films exclusive rights to create a biographical film about his life, titled Dada – The Sourav Ganguly Story, which is expected to release in 2027.
Defense and Film Overview
On the other hand, the legal team for Doosra contends that the film is not a biographical account of the cricketer. They explained that the story revolves around a young woman from Rajasthan who draws inspiration from Ganguly’s achievements. The defense also stated that the production team obtained the necessary permissions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to use footage from the NatWest series, arguing that Ganguly does not have exclusive rights over that broadcast material.
Doosra is portrayed as a narrative of personal empowerment, set against the backdrop of the 2002 NatWest Series victory. It follows the character Tara as she breaks free from the limitations of her conservative upbringing, inspired by Ganguly’s bold celebration on television. The film is produced by Masha Sajdeh and Rohan Sajdeh, with Neeta Shah as co-producer. The screenplay is written by Agnello Oswin Dias, and the cast includes Ankur Vikal, Samidha Guru, Tvisha Seema, and Krishna Gokani, with an original score by Ram Sampat.