Rishi Kapoor's Family Secures Rights Over Late Actor's Name to Prevent Misuse

The family of late Hindi film star Rishi Kapoor has taken legal steps to protect the use of his name, securing rights intended to prevent unauthorised commercial or public use.

According to a source familiar with the development, the family recently obtained legal clearance to copyright the actor’s name. The move ensures that any individual, brand or organisation wishing to use “Rishi Kapoor” in a professional or commercial context would need prior approval from the family.

“As per the copyright, anyone wanting to use the name Rishi Kapoor or mention it in any capacity would need prior permission from the family,” a source said. The decision was primarily aimed at ensuring that the late actor’s name and legacy are not misused.

Kapoor, among Hindi cinema’s most recognisable stars, died on April 30, 2020, at the age of 67 after a prolonged battle with leukemia. His career spanned nearly five decades and more than 150 films. He first rose to prominence as a romantic lead in the 1970s and 1980s with films such as Bobby, before transitioning into character roles later in life.

In the last decade of his career, Kapoor appeared in a series of notable supporting performances in films including Agneepath, Kapoor & Sons and Mulk, which introduced him to a new generation of viewers.

Legal protection of a celebrity’s name, likeness or intellectual property has become increasingly common in recent years. Estates and families often take such steps to maintain control over how a public figure’s identity is used in commercial spaces.

Sources indicate that the Kapoor family’s move follows similar practices adopted globally, where the estates of late artists retain oversight over the use of names and associated intellectual property.

Kapoor’s family members, including actors Ranbir Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor, were contacted for a comment. So far there has been no comment from the immediate family.