The Madras High Court has delivered a significant ruling to protect the highly anticipated Hindi film *Mardaani 3*, starring Rani Mukerji. In a proactive move ahead of its theatrical debut, the Court granted an ad-interim anti-piracy injunction, a crucial step to safeguard the movie's copyright from potential unlawful dissemination.
Key Details of the Landmark Injunction
• Initiated by Yash Raj Films: The suit was filed by the film’s producer, Yash Raj Films, citing serious concerns over potential piracy both before and after the official release.
• Scope of the Order: Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy issued an interim order specifically restraining internet service providers (ISPs) and cable television operators.
• Prohibited Activities: These entities are forbidden from any unauthorised broadcast, transmission, or dissemination of *Mardaani 3*.
• Pre-Release Protection: The injunction's primary aim is to prevent the film from being unlawfully telecast or circulated online prior to its scheduled release in cinemas.
Court's Rationale: Balancing IP Rights and Commercial Interests The Court observed that pre-release piracy carries the risk of irreversible injury to copyright holders, as once pirated content enters the public domain, the damage to commercial interests becomes irreparable. However, it also acknowledged concerns that broad anti-piracy injunctions could impact the legitimate business operations of intermediaries like ISPs and cable operators who might not be directly involved in piracy. To strike a balance, the Court directed Yash Raj Films to furnish an indemnity. This indemnity would cover any legitimate business losses incurred by the respondents due to the operation of the interim order, ensuring fair protection for all parties involved.
About Mardaani 3 and the Franchise's Legacy
• Mardaani 3* is the third installment in the acclaimed *Mardaani* franchise, with Rani Mukerji reprising her iconic role as a police officer. The film, directed by Abhiraj Minawala, is slated to hit cinemas on January 30, 2026. This legal action highlights the ongoing battle against film piracy, a prevalent issue that threatens the financial viability and creative integrity of major cinematic productions.
Broader Implications: A Trend in Film Protection Notably, this isn't an isolated case. The Madras High Court recently passed a similar interim order to protect another Hindi film, *Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos*, from unauthorized broadcast. These consistent judicial efforts underscore the judiciary's increasing focus on curbing film piracy, especially in the crucial pre-release period, reinforcing the legal framework designed to protect intellectual property within the entertainment industry.
