Sony vs Myntra: Bombay High Court Restrains Use of Songs in ₹5 Crore Copyright Infringement Suit

Commercial IP Suit Lodged by Sony Music Sparks a Dialogue on Sync Licenses and Music Usage in Advertising

Contents

A Clash of Beats: Sony Takes Myntra to Court Why It Matters: Understanding Sync Licenses and Legal Boundaries Parallel Case: Phonographic Performance Ltd. (PPL) vs Lookpart Exhibitions and Events Pvt. Ltd.Conclusion: Sync Smart, License Right Also Read:

A Clash of Beats: Sony Takes Myntra to Court

In a significant development in the world of copyright law, Sony Music Entertainment India Pvt. Ltd. has filed a high-profile copyright infringement suit against Myntra Designs Pvt. Ltd. in the Bombay High Court. The lawsuit, registered in April 2025, accuses Myntra of unauthorized use of at least 20 sound recordings in digital advertisements and promotional content hosted on its website and mobile app, despite prior service of a cease-and-desist notice.

Presided over by Justice Manish Pitale, the Court has recorded Myntra’s undertaking to take down all links and refrain from further exploitation of Sony’s songs—pending disposal of the interim application. The case is next scheduled for hearing on 30 June 2025, with directions given for filing affidavits by both parties in the meantime.

Why It Matters: Understanding Sync Licenses and Legal Boundaries

At the heart of the dispute lies the issue of Sync Licenses—a form of license required when synchronizing music with visuals in media, especially for commercial purposes such as advertising, films, and social media promotions. Sony’s claim alleges that Myntra failed to obtain the necessary permissions, thereby violating core copyright principles.

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The songs in question include popular tracks like Ishq Di Baajiyan from Soorma, Gal Mitthi Mitthi and Behke Behke from Aisha, Zaroor from Zaroor, among others. Sony has demanded ₹5 crore in damages, citing both monetary loss and reputational impact.

Parallel Case: Phonographic Performance Ltd. (PPL) vs Lookpart Exhibitions and Events Pvt. Ltd.

Court: Delhi High Court
Year: 2022
Key Issue: Use of sound recordings at an event without license
Summary:
Phonographic Performance Ltd. filed a suit against Lookpart Exhibitions for playing music at trade shows and promotional events without acquiring the necessary licenses. The Delhi High Court granted an injunction, preventing further use of any copyrighted sound recordings owned by PPL. The case emphasized that live or recorded public performances of copyrighted songs—even in offline spaces like events—require valid authorization.

Conclusion: Sync Smart, License Right

The Sony vs Myntra case is a powerful reminder for brands, influencers, and agencies to respect copyright law. With growing judicial scrutiny and the increasing use of popular music in branding, obtaining a valid Sync License is not just best practice—it’s a legal necessity.

Failing to do so can lead to hefty penalties, court orders, and reputation loss. In an era where sound defines brand identity, staying on the right side of the law is more critical than ever.