Sourav Ganguly vs 'Doosra': Delhi high court seeks filmmakers’ reply on personality rights plea, asks to arrange screening

A legal dispute has emerged over the biographical film titled ‘Doosra’, which portrays the life of former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly. A petition was filed alleging that the filmmakers used Ganguly’s name, image, and personal story without obtaining proper consent, thereby infringing on his personality rights. The case was brought before the Delhi High Court, where the petitioner argued that the unauthorized depiction could affect the former captain’s reputation and commercial interests. The court took note of these concerns and scheduled a hearing to examine the merits of the claim.

In response, the court issued an order directing the film’s producers to submit a written reply addressing each point raised in the petition. The filmmakers were also instructed to arrange a private screening of the movie for the court, the petitioner, and any other stakeholders who requested it. This step is intended to allow all parties to assess the content directly, ensuring that any alleged misuse can be evaluated with the film in view. Legal analysts noted that personality rights cases in India are still evolving, and this hearing could set a precedent for how future biographical projects are handled.

The outcome of this case matters to Indian readers because it touches on the balance between creative expression and the protection of an individual’s public image. If the court rules in favor of the petitioner, it could lead to stricter requirements for obtaining consent before depicting real‑life personalities in movies, affecting filmmakers, producers, and the broader entertainment industry. Conversely, a decision supporting the filmmakers might reinforce artistic freedom while still encouraging responsible storytelling. The decision will likely influence how future biopics are produced and marketed across the country.