Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, starring Chiranjeevi and Nayanthara in the lead, was released in theatres on January 12. Fans have praised the film’s humour, however, many noticed the inclusion of a particular song, which could lead the team in trouble. The song Sundari Kannal Oru Seidhi, composed by Ilaiyaraaja, has been used during the romantic portions between Chiranjeevi and Nayanthara’s characters. As a result, many fans speculated whether Ilaiyaraaja might take legal action against the makers. Director Anil Ravipudi has now responded to these concerns.
Anil Ravipudi on using Ilaiyaraaja`s Sundari Kannal Oru Seidhi in Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu
While talking at the film’s success meet, Anil Ravipudi clarified that prior permit was obtained from Ilaiyaraaja to use the song. Anil shared, “We used this beautiful song in the film, and before doing so, we sought permission from Ilaiyaraaja sir. We informed him that it would be used in sequences featuring Chiranjeevi, and he agreed. I am grateful that a legend like him took the time to hear us out and willingly gave his consent. The due process was followed after we received his approval.”
Given that Ilaiyaraaja has taken legal action against other producers who have used his songs, Anil Ravipudi added, “I’m not sure what process others followed, but in our case, we personally approached him and requested permission, which he kindly granted.”
For the unversed, Sundari Kannal Oru Seidhi originally featured in Mani Ratnam’s 1991 film Thalapathy and was picturised on Rajinikanth and Shobhana.
Ilaiyaraaja’s earlier legal disputes
Interestingly, Ilaiyaraaja has a history of suing makers over the copyrights of his songs. The ace music composer had previously sued Mythri Movie Makers for using versions of his songs Karutha Machan and Nooru Varusham in Pradeep Ranganathan’s Dude, along with others like Otha Rubayum Tharen, Ilamai Idho Idho, and En Jodi Manjakuruvi in Ajith’s Good Bad Ugly. The legal dispute was later resolved amicably, when the makers reportedly paid Rs 50 lakh as compensation.
Similarly, there was a copyright dispute between Ilaiyaraaja and the makers of Manjummel Boys over the use of the song Kanmani Anbodu Kaadhalan, which was also settled. The producers reportedly paid Rs 60 lakh as compensation.
MSVPG director on whether Ilaiyaraaja will sue the film for using his song
