The Delhi High Court has moved a copyright battle between two film production houses toward a negotiated settlement, signaling a preference for dialogue over prolonged litigation in a dispute over musical intellectual property.
On Thursday, April 9, 2026, the court referred the dispute over the alleged unauthorized use of a song from the 1989 cult classic Tridev in the newer production Dhurandhar 2 to mediation. The move aims to resolve the conflict between the original rights holders and the creators of the sequel without the need for a full-scale trial.
The legal friction centers on the track “Rang De Lal (Oye Oye)” from Dhurandhar 2. According to a plea filed by Trimurti Films, the makers of Tridev, the newer song incorporates elements of the iconic 1989 track “Tirchi Topi Wale” without the necessary legal authorization or licensing agreements.
The core of the copyright claim
Intellectual property disputes in the Indian film industry often hinge on the distinction between “inspiration” and “infringement.” In this instance, Trimurti Films contends that the melodic or lyrical essence of “Tirchi Topi Wale” was lifted for use in “Rang De Lal (Oye Oye)” without a formal agreement.
The 1989 film Tridev remains a significant piece of Bollywood history, known for its ensemble cast and high-energy soundtrack. For rights holders, the protection of these assets is not merely about nostalgia but about the commercial value of music royalties and the integrity of the Indian Copyright Act, which governs how creative works are protected and licensed.
When the Delhi HC refers dispute over use of ‘Tridev’ song in ‘Dhurandhar 2’ to mediation, it acknowledges that these cases are often better solved through financial settlements or retroactive licensing rather than court-mandated injunctions that could potentially stall a film’s release or distribution.
Comparing the disputed tracks
While the court has not yet ruled on the merits of the infringement, the dispute focuses on the specific similarities between the two compositions.
| Feature | Original Work | Alleged Infringing Work |
|---|---|---|
| Song Title | Tirchi Topi Wale | Rang De Lal (Oye Oye) |
| Film | Tridev (1989) | Dhurandhar 2 |
| Rights Holder | Trimurti Films | Dhurandhar 2 Production |
Why mediation is the preferred path
Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps the disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. For the Delhi High Court, this approach reduces the burden on the judicial system and provides a faster resolution for the entertainment industry, where timing is often critical for marketing and theatrical windows.
The stakes for Dhurandhar 2 are significant. If mediation fails and the court later finds a clear case of copyright infringement, the production could face several outcomes:
- Financial Damages: Payment of substantial royalties or damages to Trimurti Films.
- Content Modification: A court order to remove or replace the song in the film.
- Injunctions: Potential restrictions on the distribution of the film until the dispute is settled.
Broader implications for Bollywood music
This case reflects a growing trend of vigilance among legacy production houses regarding their catalogs. As the industry moves toward more frequent remakes and “reimagined” tracks, the line between a tribute and an unauthorized copy has become a frequent point of legal contention.
Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this mediation will serve as a reminder to modern filmmakers to conduct thorough “music clearances” during the pre-production phase. Ensuring that every sample, melody, or lyrical hook is licensed avoids the costly and public nature of High Court filings.
Note: This report discusses legal proceedings regarding intellectual property. It is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
The next phase of the process will involve the appointment of a mediator to facilitate discussions between Trimurti Films and the producers of Dhurandhar 2. The court will await the report from the mediation center to determine if a settlement has been reached or if the matter must return to the judicial bench for a formal hearing.
We invite readers to share their thoughts on the balance between musical inspiration and copyright in the comments below.
