Friday, November 22, 2024 HRAWI clarifies that music played at weddings and related events remains exempt from licensing under Indian law, countering false claims by private agencies. The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has provided clarity on the legal requirements for obtaining music licenses for weddings and related social festivities held at hospitality venues. This statement addresses recent confusion caused by claims from certain private agencies that such licenses are now mandatory.
HRAWI has reaffirmed that Indian law remains unchanged, and music played during wedding processions and associated celebrations is exempt from licensing requirements. The association emphasized that playing music at these events does not constitute an infringement. Furthermore, it clarified that any private agency demanding payment for music licenses in connection with weddings or related festivities is acting in violation of Section 52(1)(za) of the Copyright Act.
“We have received reports of private agencies misleading hotels and guests regarding the need for music licenses at marriages and related/associated festivities. Some agencies are also publishing misleading reports suggesting the exemption for a marriage is no longer valid. These agencies are citing the Hon’ble Goa High Court Order dated 13.
08.2024 and the DPIIT Public Notice dated 07.11.
2024, misinterpreting it as a legal requirement to obtain music licenses. HRAWI has verified that Section 52(1)(za.
