Months following the theatrical debut of the Malayalam film ‘Manjummel Boys,’ renowned music composer Ilaiyarajaa has initiated legal action against its makers for the unauthorized usage of his song ‘Kanmani Anbodu’ from the 1991 Tamil movie ‘Gunaa.’ The song was prominently featured in a pivotal scene of the film, which is based on a real-life story set in the Guna caves of Kodaikanal. Subsequently, the song gained significant traction on social media platforms.
Composer’s Grievance
Ilaiyarajaa, through a legal notice directed to pivotal figures including actor Soubin Shahir and the production company Parava Films, asserted his exclusive rights over the composition ‘Kanmani Anbodu Kaadhal.’ The notice highlighted the composer’s intention to pursue appropriate legal recourse against the unauthorized utilization of his original musical creation in ‘Manjummel Boys.’
 Legal Grounds
Citing the Copyrights Act of 1957, Ilaiyarajaa underscored that despite receiving acknowledgment in the film’s credits, the absence of formal permission or consent constitutes a violation of his rights. Moreover, he emphasized that the exploitation of his work for commercial gain without due authorization and remuneration further compounds the infringement.
Demands and Ultimatum
The legal notice demanded that the producers either secure proper authorization for the continued use of the song or remove it from the film and associated promotional materials. Additionally, compensation for the unauthorized utilization of the composition was sought within a stipulated period of 15 days.
Response and Background
Director Chidambaram chose to share the pertinent news article without offering commentary on the matter. However, a symbolic gesture was made by sharing the Tamil song ‘Malarnthum Malaratha’ from the film ‘Pasamalar,’ composed by TM Soundararajan.
‘Manjummel Boys’ emerged as a colossal success, setting records in both Kerala and Tamil Nadu box offices. Notably, it became the first Malayalam film to surpass the Rs 200 crore mark within a mere 26 days of its release. The film, inspired by a true event from 2006, follows the escapades of a group of friends from the quaint town of Manjummel near Kochi as they embark on a vacation to Kodaikanal.
