• Source:JND
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Kapil Sharma’s popular Netflix series The Great Indian Kapil Show has run into serious legal trouble just ahead of its grand finale. Producer Firoz A. Nadiadwala has filed a legal notice worth against Netflix and the show’s creators, accusing them of using the iconic Baburao Ganpatrao Apte character from the much-loved Hera Pheri franchise without authorisation. The issue came to light after comedian Kiku Sharda impersonated the role, originally played by veteran actor Paresh Rawal, during one of the episodes. Nadiadwala, who holds the rights to the franchise, claims this was an unlawful and unauthorised attempt to profit from the character’s popularity. The legal action has arrived at a sensitive time, with the show gearing up to air its final episode featuring Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar. 

According to the notice, Nadiadwala argues that Baburao is not just a character but the very “soul” of Hera Pheri, a role nurtured by Paresh Rawal and deeply connected to fans across generations. He stressed that no one has the right to misuse or exploit the character for commercial gain without the family’s permission. The lawsuit outlines multiple allegations, including copyright infringement under Section 51 of the Copyright Act, 1957, and trademark infringement under Section 29 of the Trademarks Act. Nadiadwala’s team has also claimed infringement of exclusive rights under Section 14 of the Copyright Act, which protects how a work can be communicated publicly or included in films. Importantly, the notice states that Baburao is a registered trademark owned by the Nadiadwala family, making its usage without approval a direct violation of law.

Meanwhile, the producer’s legal team, led by advocate Sana Raees Khan, has demanded the immediate removal of all segments featuring the character from Netflix, third-party platforms, and social media. They have also requested a written assurance that Baburao will not be used again in the future without explicit permission. Furthermore, the notice insists on a formal apology within 24 hours and seeks Rs 25 crore in damages and compensation, to be paid within two days of receiving the notice. Khan described the act as “blatant theft for commercial gain,” stressing that creative rights are not open for exploitation. She added that these rights have been “lawfully earned and zealously protected” and would now be defended with full legal force.

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As the finale of The Great Indian Kapil Show approaches, what was meant to be a celebratory episode has been clouded by this legal storm. With Akshay Kumar set to appear in the final episode, all eyes will be on how Netflix and the show’s makers respond to this high-profile lawsuit.