Dharma Productions Takes Legal Action Against Dubai-Based Firm in Bombay High Court
In a significant legal development, Dharma Productions, the renowned film banner owned by filmmaker Karan Johar, has approached the Bombay High Court. The company has initiated a lawsuit against Humble Motion Pictures FZCO, a Dubai-based entity, over the alleged wrongful termination of a services contract related to the upcoming Punjabi film 'Viyaah Kartaare Da'. The production house is seeking urgent interim protection from the court until arbitration proceedings can be formally conducted.
Details of the December 2025 Agreement Between the Companies
According to reports from Bollywood Hungama, the two companies entered into a formal agreement on December 10, 2025. Under this contract, Dharma Productions was tasked with providing comprehensive consultancy, marketing, and other related services for the Punjabi film. A key aspect of this deal was that Dharma was set to recover losses amounting to approximately Rs 7.25 crore, which it claimed to have suffered from an earlier jointly backed film project with Humble Motion Pictures. Notably, the production house clarified that it was not required to contribute financially to the production of 'Viyaah Kartaare Da'. Instead, Dharma was entitled to a fixed revenue share until it recouped Rs 7.03 crores, outlining a structured financial arrangement.
Revenue-Sharing Model and Sudden Termination Explained
Dharma Productions stated that after it actively promoted the film on its official social media platforms, Humble Motion Pictures sent an email on January 21, 2026, abruptly terminating the services agreement. The reason provided was that Humble no longer desired Dharma's services. However, Dharma argued that the contract explicitly does not permit termination at will, emphasizing that Humble did not allege any breach of contract by Dharma. The plea further highlighted that Humble had already reaped benefits from Dharma's established brand reputation and promotional efforts before deciding to end the deal, raising questions about the timing and justification of the termination.
Legal Demands and Upcoming Court Hearing
In its legal filing, Dharma Productions has requested the Bombay High Court to issue an injunction preventing Humble Motion Pictures from acting on the termination email. Additionally, the company is seeking financial compensation, including a demand for Humble to pay or deposit 50% of any extra revenue generated from cinema collections and other sources. Dharma has also asked for detailed financial accounts to be provided and has urged the court to direct Humble to deposit Rs 7.03 crores as part of the interim relief. The court is scheduled to hear the matter again on February 18, 2026, to deliberate on these interim measures and determine the next steps in the legal proceedings.
