New Delhi: The Supreme Court directs music composer A.R. Rahman to recognize the rendition and contributions of Dhrupad vocalist Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar to the song ‘Veera Raja Veera’ from the film Ponniyin Selvan II.
Court’s Call for Acknowledgment
A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasizes the need for acknowledgment. “There should be some acknowledgement. This is not a fight between professionals… we have been traditional worshippers of classical music,” the bench states.
The court hears Dagar’s appeal against a September 2025 Delhi High Court decision. That ruling overturned a single-judge interim order that found a prima facie case of copyright infringement.
Key Observations on Classical Music Heritage
Addressing Rahman’s counsel, senior advocate A.M. Singhvi, the bench highlights the role of traditional families in classical music. “Do you think these modern singers would have survived in the market” without their contributions to Shastriya Sangeet? the bench questions.
The court notes no dispute over performer’s rights, despite questions on authorship. It affirms the Dagarwani tradition’s predecessors and the undisputed originality of the tune.
Arguments from Both Sides
Singhvi argues the composition debuted publicly in 1991 by the Gundecha Brothers and on other occasions without issue. He seeks time to take instructions, stating, “As a first performer, I want to be clear… let me take instructions and come back.”
Dagar claims ‘Veera Raja Veera’ copies ‘Shiva Stuti,’ created by his father Nasir Faiyazuddin Dagar and uncle Zahiruddin Dagar, the junior Dagar brothers.
Rahman counters that ‘Shiva Stuti’ belongs to the public domain Dhrupad repertoire. He describes ‘Veera Raja Veera’ as an original piece with Western musical elements and layered orchestration.
Path to Resolution and Next Steps
The bench suggests amicable resolution through mediation, honoring Dhrupad’s shared heritage. It compares the issue to crediting 1950s-1960s stalwarts: “What we have learned today is all coming from that generation.”
The court opines the dispute suits table talks over legal battles. While Dagar establishes originality, authorship demands further evidence, including scrutiny of Khusro-era compositions.
It upholds the single-judge order for Rahman and production entities to deposit Rs 2 crore pending suit disposal. The matter schedules for further hearing on February 20, 2026.
