Why Producer Nadiadwala Sued Netflix for Using Baburao in Kapil Sharma Show
Netflix and Kapil Sharma’s comedy show has run into controversy after producer Firoz A. Nadiadwala slapped a Rs,25 crore lawsuit. The case revolves around the iconic “Baburao” character from Hera Pheri, raising questions about copyright and creative ownership.
Just ahead of its finale with Akshay Kumar, The Great Indian Kapil Show faces a major legal storm. Producer Firoz A. Nadiadwala has sent a Rs.25 crore legal notice to Netflix and the show’s makers, accusing them of misusing the legendary Baburao Ganpatrao Apte character from Hera Pheri. Also Read: Mahavatar Narsimha OTT Release: When and Where to Watch Animated Epic Blockbuster Film
Why the Lawsuit Matters
The controversy started after a promo showed comedian Kiku Sharda dressed as Baburao, a role immortalized by Paresh Rawal. Nadiadwala claims the parody was done without permission, amounting to copyright infringement under Section 51 and trademark violation under Section 29 of Indian law.Nadiadwala’s Strong Statement
Calling Baburao “the soul of Hera Pheri,” Nadiadwala argued that the legacy was created with “sweat, vision, and creativity.” He stressed that Paresh Rawal nurtured the role and no one should exploit it for commercial gain. “Culture is for preservation, not exploitation,” he said in his statement.Legal Demands in Notice
The notice includes several strict conditions:- Removal of the Baburao act from Netflix, social media, and other platforms
- A written undertaking to avoid future misuse
- A formal apology within 24 hours