Supreme Court to Hear Ustad Wasifuddin Dagar’s Copyright Plea Against A.R. Rahman Over ‘Veera Raja Veera’
Dhrupad maestro alleges song copied from family’s traditional composition
Delhi High Court interim relief overturned, case escalates to apex court
By Legal Reporter
New Delhi: February 11, 2026:
The Supreme Court of India is set to hear a high-profile copyright dispute involving renowned Dhrupad vocalist Ustad Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar and Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman. The case centers on the song “Veera Raja Veera” from Mani Ratnam’s blockbuster film Ponniyin Selvan II, which Dagar alleges was copied from “Shiva Stuti”, a traditional composition created by his father Ustad Nasir Faiyazuddin Dagar and Uncle Ustad Nasir Zahiruddin Dagar, popularly known as the Junior Dagar Brothers.
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The dispute, which began in the Delhi High Court, has now reached the Supreme Court after a Division Bench overturned interim relief earlier granted to Dagar. The apex court, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, will hear the matter this week.
Background of the Case
- In 2023, Ponniyin Selvan II featured the song “Veera Raja Veera”, composed by A.R. Rahman.
- Dagar alleged that the composition was substantially similar in rhythm, taal, and musical structure to “Shiva Stuti”, a Dhrupad piece performed by his family in the 1970s.
- A Single Judge of the Delhi High Court initially directed Rahman and the producers to deposit ₹2 crore and modify credits to include the Junior Dagar Brothers.
- However, in September 2025, a Division Bench of Justices C. Hari Shankar and Om Prakash Shukla set aside the interim order, ruling that there was no prima facie evidence of copyright infringement.
- Dagar then approached the Supreme Court, challenging the Division Bench’s decision.
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Court’s Observations So Far
- The Division Bench held that mere similarities in rhythm and style do not establish copyright infringement.
- It emphasized that lyrics and arrangement differences weaken the claim of direct copying.
- The Supreme Court has adjourned the matter to February 13, 2026, for further hearing, leaving the dispute unresolved for now.
Why This Matters
This case is significant for both the music industry and copyright law in India:
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- It raises questions about traditional compositions and their protection under modern copyright law.
- It highlights the tension between classical heritage and contemporary adaptations.
- It could set a precedent for how courts treat claims of infringement involving folk and classical works.
Broader Legal Context
- Copyright Act, 1957: Protects original literary, musical, and artistic works.
- Traditional Compositions: Often face challenges in proving originality and ownership, especially when passed down orally.
- Judicial Precedents: Courts have previously struggled to balance artistic inspiration with copyright protection.
This case may clarify how Indian courts interpret copyright claims involving classical and folk traditions, which are often adapted in modern cinema and music.
Expert Opinions
- Musicologists argue that similarities in rhythm and taal may reflect traditional structures rather than copying.
- Copyright lawyers note that proving infringement in classical works is complex, as many ragas and taals are part of the public domain.
- Artists emphasize the need to respect traditional compositions while allowing creative reinterpretation.
Impact on Society and Industry
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- Classical Musicians: Gain visibility and recognition for their works.
- Film Industry: May face stricter scrutiny when adapting traditional compositions.
- Audiences: Become more aware of the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s upcoming hearing in the Veera Raja Veera copyright dispute marks a pivotal moment in India’s cultural and legal landscape. By addressing whether Rahman’s composition infringes upon the Dagar family’s traditional work, the Court will not only decide a high-profile case but also shape the future of copyright protection for classical and folk music in India.
This case underscores the delicate balance between artistic freedom and respect for heritage, reminding creators that inspiration must not cross into infringement.
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