The Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in India issued a public notice responding to complaints about copyright societies collecting music royalties during weddings, potentially violating the Copyright Act. The complaints alleged that such collections were against the exemptions provided under Section 52(1)(za) of the Copyright Act, which includes cultural and religious ceremonies.
The DPIIT clarified that music performances and communication during weddings are lawfully exempt from copyright infringement.
The Event & Entertainment Management Association (EEMA) embraced this move, as they were already advocating against music royalties for weddings, considering music an integral part of Indian culture and traditions. Besides, EEMA has been working with the Ministry of Tourism to develop India’s first-ever Wedding Tourism Policy, aiming to position India as a leading global wedding destination.
The notice also warned copyright societies to refrain from activities contradicting the provisions of Section 52, with potential legal action against violators. This development may shape the future landscape of the event industry and its interactions with copyright societies while preserving cultural traditions.
