JioStar and Zee Entertainment in Legal Battle Over Bollywood Film Rights

The media industry is witnessing a significant legal showdown between two entertainment powerhouses, JioStar and Zee Entertainment Enterprises. In a recent development, JioStar has taken legal action against Zee Entertainment, alleging the unauthorized broadcast of several iconic Bollywood films.

According to a Reuters report, JioStar filed a comprehensive 120-page plea with the Delhi High Court Legal Services Committee on May 4, 2026. The plea accuses Zee of broadcasting 12 Bollywood films, including classics featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan, without the necessary authorization.

JioStar, backed by Reliance and Disney, has described Zee as a "habitual infringer" and claims that the broadcaster has repeatedly engaged in unauthorized exploitation of these films. The dispute has been simmering since early 2025, with both parties exchanging legal notices and letters.

The Reuters report suggests that JioStar may seek damages exceeding Rs 250 million ($2.61 million), although the exact amount is yet to be determined. Among the films mentioned in the plea are the 1975 blockbuster 'Deewaar' and 'Tridev', both of which JioStar claims to own the rights to.

Zee Entertainment, in its response, has characterized the unauthorized broadcasts as "inadvertent and unintentional" and has promised to exercise caution in the future. However, they deny liability for the substantial damages being sought by JioStar.

This dispute adds another layer to the ongoing legal battles between the two companies. They are already engaged in a separate $1 billion arbitration in London, stemming from a cricket licensing agreement collapse in 2024. Additionally, Zee filed a lawsuit against JioStar in April 2026, claiming unauthorized use of copyrighted music, seeking $3 million in damages.

JioStar, formed through the merger of Reliance Industries and Disney's Indian media assets, dominates India's media and entertainment market with a 34.2% share. Zee, meanwhile, claims its market share has reached a four-year high of 18%.