The Delhi High Court on Tuesday directed the removal of images of YouTuber and actor Bhuvan Bam that were uploaded and circulated on various platforms without his consent. However, the court refrained from granting interim protection on the broader issue of his personality and publicity rights at this stage.As per IANS, Justice Jyoti Singh observed that a prima facie finding on the infringement of personality rights could not be made on the very first day of hearing. The matter has been listed for further consideration in February.
Bhuvan Bam alleges misuse of name, image and voice
Bam had moved the court through a civil suit, alleging that several entities and individuals had been unlawfully exploiting his name, image, voice, likeness and other aspects of his persona without authorisation, licence or permission.He further argued that such unauthorised use amounts to infringement of registered trademarks, copyrights and other intellectual property rights jointly owned by him and his production company, BB Ki Vines.
‘Unauthorised use likely to mislead public’
The petitioner contended that the commercial misuse of his identity is likely to mislead the public and cause confusion, while also diluting the goodwill and distinct recognition associated with his persona.Bam and BB Ki Vines submitted that he enjoys immense popularity and has built substantial goodwill over the years, which stands threatened due to unauthorised commercial exploitation.
A leading digital creator with massive reach
Bhuvan Bam is among India’s most prominent digital content creators, with over 26.6 million subscribers on YouTube and a massive following across platforms such as Instagram and X. Born in Vadodara, Gujarat, he launched BB Ki Vines in 2015 with short, character-driven comedy sketches.By portraying multiple recurring characters himself, Bam struck a chord with young audiences, with his relatable everyday humour quickly going viral across the internet.
Part of a growing trend among celebrities
The case comes amid a surge in celebrities approaching the Delhi High Court to safeguard their personality and publicity rights. In recent weeks, the Delhi High Court has granted interim relief to several public figures, including Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Ajay Devgn, Karan Johar, Kumar Sanu, Nagarjuna, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Sudhir Chaudhary, Raj Shamani and Jr NTR.
