Audio streaming platform Pocket FM has initiated a copyright infringement lawsuit against Disney+ Hotstar, alleging that the video streaming giant has violated its intellectual property rights related to the audio series “Yakshini.” The suit has been filed in the Delhi High Court, according to reports by ET.
Pocket FM is seeking an interim injunction against Novi Digital Entertainment, the parent company of Disney+ Hotstar. The audio streaming service has requested that the court order the removal of the trailer for Disney+ Hotstar’s web series, also titled “Yakshini.”
In the plea dated June 11, Pocket FM asserts its ownership of the copyright for “Yakshini,” which has been available on its platform since May 2021. The company claims that Disney+ Hotstar’s upcoming Telugu web series shares numerous similarities with its original audio series, constituting a breach of copyright.
Disney+ Hotstar has already released the promotional trailer for the web series, which is scheduled to begin streaming on June 14. Pocket FM’s plea aims to halt the release and promotion of the web series, pending a decision on the copyright claim.
Pocket FM’s “Yakshini” is a popular audio series that has garnered significant attention since its launch. The company contends that the similarities between its series and Disney+ Hotstar’s production could lead to confusion among audiences and undermine the original content’s value.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have broader implications for the content streaming industry, especially in terms of how intellectual property rights are managed and enforced. This case underscores the importance of due diligence in content creation to avoid potential legal conflicts.
As the case proceeds, all eyes will be on the Delhi High Court’s decision regarding the interim injunction and the broader implications for both Pocket FM and Disney+ Hotstar. This legal battle highlights the growing tensions in the digital content space as platforms strive to offer unique and engaging content to their audiences.
