Just before its grand finale with Akshay Kumar, The Great Indian Kapil Show is in legal trouble. Producer Firoz A Nadiadwala is upset and has sent a Rs 25 crore legal notice to Netflix and the show’s makers. He claims comedian Kiku Sharda’s act as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte from the Hera Pheri films was done without permission.
Reason Behind Rs 25 Cr Lawsuit Over The Great Indian Kapil Show Finale Act
The controversy is over a promo for the finale showing Kiku Sharda dressed as Baburao, the character made popular by Paresh Rawal. Nadiadwala, who owns the rights, says this violates copyright law under Section 51 of the Copyright Act and trademark law under Section 29 of the Trademarks Act.
Nadiadwala said, “Baburao is not just a character, but the soul of Hera Pheri. This legacy was built with our sweat, vision, and creativity. Paresh Rawal ji nurtured the role with his heart and soul. No one has the right to misuse it for commercial gain. Culture is not for exploitation; it is for preservation.”
What Does The Legal Notice Demand From Kapil Sharma And Netflix?
The legal notice asks for:
1. Immediate removal of the Baburao segment from Netflix, social media, and other platforms
2. A written promise that the character will not be used again without permission
3. A formal apology within 24 hours
4. Payment of Rs 25 crore in damages within two days
It also warns that failure to comply could lead to civil and criminal action.
Watch the promo
Will This Affect The Great Indian Kapil Show S3 Finale?
The Great Indian Kapil Show Season 3 finale (featuring Akshay Kumar) is still set to stream on September 20 (today). But if the issue escalates, Netflix may have to edit or remove the Baburao skit.
If Nadiadwala’s demands are met, the Baburao parody will likely be pulled from all platforms. His legal team stressed that Baburao is a registered trademark and warned, “no one has the liberty to treat a creative legacy as a free-for-all.”
Let’s see if the episode airs with the Baburao segment or not. We will get the clarity tonight.
