Ilaiyaraaja sends legal notice to ‘Good Bad Ugly’ team for using his songs without permission

Legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja has raised strong objections against the makers of the Tamil film Good Bad Ugly for using modified versions of three of his popular songs without getting his approval. The film, starring Ajith Kumar, Trisha Krishnan, and Arjun Das, has been performing well at the box office, but it is now facing legal trouble from the music icon.

Ilaiyaraaja’s legal team sent a notice accusing the filmmakers of using altered versions of Otha Rubayum Tharen, Ilamai Idho Idho, and En Jodi Manja Kuruvi without permission. These songs originally featured in the films Nattupura Pattu, Sakalakala Vallavan, and Vikram, respectively.

A section of the legal notice reads, “It has come to our Client's knowledge that his original creations/musical work... have been used, altered, and commercially exploited... without obtaining express consent/permission... and without payment of royalties that he is statutorily entitled to.” It further says, “Such actions constitute unauthorised use, appropriation and a clear infringement of our Client's copyright and moral rights... He has never accorded any permission or consent, either express or implied...”

Ilaiyaraaja has asked for ₹5 crore in compensation, along with a written apology. He also wants the altered songs to be removed from the film and a full account of all money earned through their use. This is not the first time Ilaiyaraaja has taken legal action. In 2024, he had raised a similar issue with the Malayalam hit Manjummel Boys for using Kanmani Anbodu from Gunaa. That case ended with the producers paying ₹60 lakh.

However, Good Bad Ugly producer Yalamanchili Ravi Shankar told Hindustan Times, “We have taken permission from all the music labels... We have done things by the book.” Despite the controversy, Good Bad Ugly has collected over Rs 170 crore in just five days.


To catch the latest updates in the music world, head to Gaana.com now!