Madras High Court Shields Ilaiyaraaja’s Personality Rights from AI Misuse

The Madras High Court has issued an interim injunction restraining several major digital platforms from using AI-generated images, morphed photographs or artificially created voice clips of legendary music director Ilaiyaraaja for commercial purposes, ruling that such usage violates his personality rights.

The order was passed by Justice N. Senthilkumar in response to a civil suit filed by the composer, who complained that multiple online platforms were exploiting his identity by pairing his music with unauthorised photographs, AI-made visuals, reels, memes and morphed images. The defendants -- including Amazon, YouTube, Facebook, Google, Sony Music and India Record Manufacturing Co. -- have been directed to file their counter-affidavits by December 19, 2025.

Ilaiyaraaja sought to prevent these platforms from using his name, image, voice or any other identifiable attribute for commercial or personal gain without his consent. The court noted that he had established a credible case for protection of his personality rights, covering photographs, animated or comical depictions, voice, and any likeness used for unauthorised endorsements or misleading content.

“Since the plaintiff has made out a case, there shall be an order of injunction and other relief prayed for,” the judge stated, before adjourning the matter to December 19.

Appearing for the composer, senior counsel S. Prabakaran argued that several online platforms, including YouTube channels and social media networks such as Facebook, X and Instagram, have been generating revenue by using AI-created images, deepfakes and voice clones of Ilaiyaraaja.

He emphasised that the composer does not object to the use of his music or name, but opposes the commercial exploitation of his photos and likeness to generate unauthorised income or create false impressions through fabricated endorsements. The counsel added that even defamatory AI-generated content -- including visuals showing him with altered skin tone -- has been circulated.

Prabakaran further submitted that third parties have been producing deepfaked, fabricated and morphed content using AI to create reels and videos that misuse Ilaiyaraaja’s identity, resulting in misleading portrayals and the spread of false information.

For any enquiries or information, contact ask@tlr.ae or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels.