Delhi High Court Orders Disclaimer on Film 'Doosra' Over Ganguly Name Use

The concrete rupture unfolded when the Delhi High Court issued an order requiring the producers of 'Doosra' to display a clear disclaimer that the film does not have the former cricket captain Sourav Ganguly's permission to use his name. The judgment, delivered after a petition by the cricketer's legal team, obliges the film's promotional material, opening credits and any related advertising to carry the notice, thereby altering the film's marketing strategy.

Underlying tension emerged as filmmakers and free‑speech advocates argued that the decision could set a precedent limiting creative expression, especially in biographical storytelling. Legal scholars noted the clash between the right to privacy for public personalities and the public's interest in narratives about national icons. The court's stance reflected a growing sensitivity within Indian jurisprudence toward the commercial exploitation of celebrity identities without explicit consent.

Downstream casualties are already evident in the film's distribution plans. Several multiplex chains have postponed screenings pending revised promotional assets, while advertisers have withdrawn sponsorships fearing legal entanglements. The production house faces additional costs to redesign posters and digital content, and the controversy may dampen audience enthusiasm, potentially affecting box‑office returns across major Indian markets.