Singer Kumar Sanu moves Delhi HC for protection of personality rights

Renowned playback singer Kumar Sanu has approached the Delhi High Court seeking legal protection of his personality and publicity rights, including his name, voice, singing style, and likeness.

The petition, filed by the veteran artist, requests the court to safeguard his distinctive vocal style, technique, mannerisms, and public persona from unauthorised use or imitation. The plea also covers protection of his images, caricatures, photographs, likeness, and signature.

The matter is likely to be heard on October 13 by Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora.

Sanu, one of the most celebrated voices of Indian cinema since the 1990s, contended that his artistic identity and reputation are being misused for commercial gain without consent. Through his plea, he has sought directions to restrain any entity or individual from exploiting his name, voice, or persona in any form, including digital and promotional content.

Legal experts note that such petitions are increasingly being filed by celebrities to prevent the unauthorised use of their personality traits for endorsements, advertisements, or entertainment projects.

Kumar Sanu, whose real name is Kedarnath Bhattacharya, has lent his voice to hundreds of Bollywood hits and remains a prominent figure in the Indian music industry. His move reflects a broader push among Indian artists to assert publicity and image rights in the evolving digital era.