Policy · Commerce & Consumer Brands

Nykaa seeks Meta's addition in Zee copyright case

What they do

Zee sued Nykaa for using copyrighted songs in Instagram reels without authorization, seeking $210K in damages

Nykaa argues only Meta can confirm licensing terms and that the dispute should go to mediation first

The case could set a precedent for brands using popular music in short-form videos

Zee Entertainment filed a copyright case against Nykaa in the Delhi High Court over unauthorized use of its songs.
Zee alleged Nykaa used its copyrighted music in promotional Instagram reels without a proper license.
Zee sought $210K in damages from Nykaa for the alleged infringement.
Zee flagged 12 Instagram reels in the case that it said used its music without permission.
Nykaa asked the court to add Meta as a party, arguing only Meta can confirm if the music use violated licensing terms.
Nykaa also argued the dispute should have gone to mediation first, and said the identified links were already taken down.
Nykaa avoided admitting any wrongdoing, and Zee sought an assurance against future unauthorized use rather than just removal.

The case has major implications for the Indian media ecosystem because both Nykaa and Zee are prominent listed companies.
Brands increasingly use short-form video content with popular tracks as background music, raising legal questions.
Courts are narrowing the scope for commercial music use by large brands and platforms.
In a similar case, the Delhi High Court ruled that digital platforms cannot rely on statutory licensing to stream music without explicit consent from rights holders.

Nykaa is an online beauty store selling cosmetics and beauty products in India.
The company operates a website offering a wide range of beauty and personal care items.
Nykaa provides discounts and promotional codes to attract customers, such as SEPT300 and SEPT500.
It is one of India's leading e-commerce platforms for beauty products.
The company serves customers across India through its online platform.

The Delhi High Court will hear Nykaa's plea to add Meta as a party.
The court may decide on the mediation request and the scope of Meta's involvement.
The case could influence how brands use music in short-form videos in India.