Ilayaraja warns against using works without prior permission

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Irked by his compositions being reportedly used by advertisers and others in violation of copyright provisions, renowned composer Ilayaraja today warned against usage of his works before the year 2000 without "prior permission and licensing."

"It is a warning. Movie producers and composers are advised not to use my songs and background scores (including remixes) without prior permission and licensing. It is also mandatory for advertisement agencies, TV Channels and TV serial producers to take proper licence and permission from Agi Music to use my songs in their production or programme,' he told reporters.

Agi Music has been authorised by him to initiate legal proceedings for such violations as the rights of his works prior to 2000 have been bagged by the company, he said.

"Agi Music has the rights to administrate all of Ilayaraja's works before the year 2000, in all areas and platform including radio broadcasting, synchronization usages, mechanical usages, mobile contents and internet downloads," Agilan Lechaman, CEO, Agi Music, said.

Ilayaraja,who had last scored music for the Amitabh-Abhishek Bachchan starrer 'Paa', charged that "a few record labels" were violating the copyright of his songs by releasing it especially in digital and new media format without permission.

"I would like to inform that I have entered into a licensing agreement with Agi Music for manufacturing and distribution of my songs in any format," including mobile ringtones, caller tones and online downloads, he said. He sought "stricter punishment" and more stringent laws to deal with copyright infringement.