Kapil Sharma's Netflix show faces legal notice for Rs 25 crore over Baburao character

Guwahati: Producer Firoz A. Nadiadwala has sent a legal notice demanding Rs 25 crore from Netflix and the creators of 'The Great Indian Kapil Show'.

He claims the show used the character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, played by Paresh Rawal in the 'Hera Pheri' movies, without permission.

This legal action comes just before the show’s final episode, which features Akshay Kumar as a guest.

The issue started when comedian Kiku Sharda impersonated Baburao, a role made famous by Paresh Rawal.

Nadiadwala, who owns the rights to the character, says the impersonation was unauthorized.

Nadiadwala argued that Baburao is not just a character but a vital part of the 'Hera Pheri' franchise. “This legacy was built with our hard work and creativity, and no one can misuse it for commercial gain,” he said.

He also stated that Paresh Rawal’s portrayal of the character made it unique and protected by intellectual property laws. “We will protect what we have created. Culture is for preservation, not exploitation,” Nadiadwala added.

The legal notice accuses the show of copyright infringement and trademark violation. Nadiadwala’s team also claims that Baburao is a registered trademark owned by his family.

The notice demands that the segment be removed from Netflix and all third-party platforms.

It also asks for a written guarantee that the character won’t be used again without permission, along with an apology within 24 hours.

Nadiadwala’s lawyer, Sana Raees Khan, called the use of the character “blatant theft for commercial gain” and stated that legal action will be taken to protect the creative legacy.