Aashiq Abu denies copyright claims by MS Baburaj’s family over ‘Neelavelicham’ songs

Days after the late music composer MS Baburaj's daughter sent a legal notice claiming copyright over the songs in 'Neelavelicham', the film's director Aashiq Abu issued an official statement on Sunday denying the allegations.

Aashiq Abu asserted that they had acquired the necessary rights and permissions to recreate and reuse the songs from the 1964 movie 'Bhargavinilayam'. He stated, "OPM Cinemas, the producers of 'Neelavelicham', followed all legal procedures, signed an agreement, and paid the required compensation to obtain the rights to reproduce those songs rightfully."

Earlier, Baburaj's daughter had sent a legal notice to Aashiq Abu and composer Bijibal, accusing them of using the late composer's songs in 'Neelavelicham' without permission. In this regard, a complaint was also lodged with Cultural Minister Saji Cheriyan.

According to the complainant, the new remix versions of Baburaj’s songs in the movie have been made in such a way that destroys the uniqueness and essence of the original versions.

Official statement pertaining to the the copyright claims of Neelavelicham movie songs

The production company that owned the copyright for the 1964 movie "Bhargavinilayam" acquired the necessary rights and permission to recreate and reuse its songs, including the ability to use new singers or change the orchestration. They obtained these rights from both the lyricists, P Bhaskaran, and the descendants of the music director, MS Baburaj, who were authorised to grant them. OPM Cinemas, the producers of "Neelavelicham," followed all legal procedures, signed an agreement, and paid the required compensation to obtain the rights to rightfully reproduce those songs. We have all the relevant documents and records of all agreements, new and old. (However, to protect the privacy of the parties involved in this lawsuit, their names are not disclosed here.)

As a tribute to the esteemed musician MS Baburaj, who created these songs, we had duly informed Sabira, his eldest daughter, of our intention to reproduce them for use in our film "Neelavelicham." We only began the project after receiving her wishes, affection, and consent.

We believe that the current disputes surrounding this matter stem from mere misunderstanding and lack of understanding of the facts. Our team is in regular communication with MS Baburaj's family to clarify the issue amicably.

We are making this official announcement for the benefit of anyone who may be interested.

Yours faithfully,

Aashiq Abu
OPM Cinemas