The Delhi High Court granted an ex parte ad-interim injunction against the use of a lyric line claimed by Ivy Entertainment as a distinctive hook of a song. This decision underscores the application of copyright law in the context of popular culture and music.
Delhi High Court Issues Injunction in Ivy Entertainment's Copyright Case
On 15 May 2026, a Single Judge of the Delhi High Court issued an ex parte ad-interim order in the case of Ivy Entertainment v. Rahul Singh, restraining the defendants from using the lyric line, 'jaane meri janeman bachpan ka pyar bhool nahi jaana re'. The plaintiff, Ivy Entertainment, which purchased a portfolio of 1,250 songs in November 2025, claims this lyric as the 'distinctive hook line' of one of its copyrighted songs.
The court's decision emphasizes the need for protection of copyright in artistic works, especially in an age where snippets of popular music can proliferate rapidly through various media. The judge's reasoning points to the distinctiveness of the hook line, framing it as integral to the song's identity.
This ruling raises significant considerations regarding copyright enforcement in India, particularly how elements of songwriting that may appear trivial or fragmentary can still qualify for protection. Practitioners should note the implications of this decision on future copyright claims and the importance of maintaining originality in creative works.
Citations
- Ivy Entertainment v. Rahul Singh (2026) 1 DEL 1