The Delhi High Court has provided temporary relief to Amazon Prime Video by preventing Mohanlal’s Aashirvad Cinemas from engaging with third parties regarding the OTT rights of the “Drishyam” film series. The court found merit in Amazon’s case, citing a contractual clause granting it preferential rights over future titles in the franchise.
Amazon argued that the respondents violated the contractual framework by terminating negotiations prematurely and seeking alternative offers for “Drishyam 3.” The court deemed this action as contrary to the agreed terms, especially since Amazon had the right to match competing offers.
Justice Shankar emphasized the importance of interim relief based on the “triple test” criteria of a prima facie case, balance of convenience, and irreparable harm. The court directed the respondents to refrain from dealing with any third-party rights related to the internet-based rights of the film until the next hearing date.
The court has summoned the respondents to respond within a week, with the next hearing scheduled for April 20, following the principles of protective interim measures without delving into the merits of the dispute.
