Renowned music composer Ilayaraja has issued a legal notice to the makers of the recently released Malayalam film ‘Manjummel Boys’, accusing them of using his musical work without permission. The notice alleges that the film unlawfully exploited the song “Kanmani Anbodu Kaadhalan”, originally composed by Ilayaraja for the 1991 movie ‘Guna’.Ilayaraja expressed his shock and surprise upon discovering that the makers of ‘Manjummel Boys’ used his song without obtaining consent. The composer emphasized that under the Copyright Act, 1957, the rights of the original author or composer are protected, and any unauthorized use of their work is prohibited.
According to the legal notice, any use or adaptation of an original musical work by a third party requires the consent and permission of the composer, along with appropriate compensation. Ilayaraja asserted that despite being the original owner of “Kanmani Anbodu Kaadhalan”, the makers of ‘Manjummel Boys’ used his work as promotional material to gain commercial benefit and publicity.
The notice demands that the filmmakers remove the song from the film and all promotional activities within 15 days. It also seeks compensation for the unauthorized use of the song. Failure to comply with these demands will result in legal action for willful infringement of Ilayaraja’s rights.