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The order prohibits them from using the Telugu legend’s name, image, voice or likeness for any commercial or personal gain without his consent.
The order, given by Chief Justice S Sashidhar Reddy on September 26, came after the actor complained that several online platforms were misusing his identity for promotion and sales through merchandise, advertisements and digital content.
The court said, “Plaintiffs’ claim of their personality rights is based on the jurisprudence laid down by the High Courts.”
It clarified that no media outlet – including YouTube channels, brands or individuals – can use any aspect of Chiranjeevi’s identity without his permission. This order clearly extends to the popular titles associated with him, such as “Megastar,” “Boss,” “Annayya,” and “Chiru.”
Chiranjeevi’s lawyers informed the court that several companies and social media pages were using his image to sell T-shirts, posters and other products bearing his photographs or AI-generated images without his consent.
His legal team highlighted that some of these images and products were fake, misleading or potentially damaging to his public image.
Keeping in mind the rapid dissemination of digital content, the court said that issuing prior notice would be largely ineffective. As a result, it issued an immediate restraining order against 33 defendants and one additional party, barring them from using Chiranjeevi’s identity in any manner.
“These photographs show that they appear to have been doctored using the plaintiff’s face. Further, the images are also used to create various videos,” the court said.
“It can be used not only for commercial purposes but also for propagating political views or anti-national ideas or for lewd or obscene purposes,” it added.
The next hearing in the case is to be held on October 27.