Acclaimed music composer AR Rahman is currently embroiled in a copyright infringement case concerning the song ‘Veera Raja Veera’ from the movie Ponniyin Selvan Part-2. The case, filed at the Delhi High Court, has been initiated by Indian classical singer and Padma Shri awardee, Ustad Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar.
Dagar alleges that Rahman’s ‘Veera Raja Veera’ bears a striking resemblance to the song ‘Shiva Stuti’, which was originally composed by his father, Nasir Faiyazuddin Dagar, and uncle, Zahiruddin Dagar. In his plea, Dagar has sought credit for the song across all platforms where it is played.
After listening to both songs, the court, presided over by Justice Pratibha M Singh, observed,
“there is definitely some kind of similarity in the beat and the taal (rhythm), there is no doubt about it”.
Consequently, Rahman has been directed to submit the raw recording of his song, devoid of any
“embellishments or computer-generated stuff.”
To substantiate his claim of copyright infringement, Dagar’s counsel presented a chart to the court, comparing the musical notations of both songs. Dagar emphasized his rights over all compositions by his father and uncle, highlighting his lineage as a descendant of the Dagar Gharana, renowned for its Dhrupad vocalists and the unique ‘Dagar Vani’ style rooted in Dhrupad classical music.
Elaborating on the origins of ‘Shiva Stuti’, Dagar stated that the composition dates back to the 1970s. It was performed by his father and uncle at various international concerts, including a notable performance at the Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam on June 22, 1978. The song was also featured in the album ‘Shiva Mahadeva’ by the Dagar Brothers, produced by PAN Records.
Dagar’s plea seeks an injunction against AR Rahman, production companies Madras Talkies and Lyca Productions, and music record label Tips Industries. He contends that while the lyrics of the two songs differ, they share identical taal and beat. As a result, he has requested the court to restrain Rahman and the associated producers from using the composition.
Interestingly, during a brief telephonic conversation between Rahman and Dagar, the former had assured a resolution to the issue, but no further action was taken. While Rahman’s counsel has yet to make a formal submission, other defendants have dismissed the allegations. Madras Talkies, for instance, argued that ‘Veera Raja Veera’ is a traditional song, and Dagar’s claim is merely an attempt at monetary gain and publicity. Music label Tips Industries also echoed a similar sentiment, stating that the ‘manner of singing’ cannot be copyrighted.
This case underscores the complexities surrounding music copyrights and the challenges artists face in safeguarding their creations. As the legal proceedings unfold, the music industry and fans alike will be keenly watching the outcome.
The court has scheduled the next hearing on this matter for November 1.
