Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has approached the Delhi High Court seeking protection of his personality rights, following growing instances of misuse of actors’ and other celebrities’ identities in digital and AI-generated content. This petition is part of a larger trend where prominent stars are legally safeguarding their image and likeness against unauthorized commercial and digital exploitation.
Mohanlal’s highly anticipated film ‘Drishyam 3’ is now scheduled for a worldwide release on May 21, 2026, coinciding with the actor’s birthday. Originally set for April 2, the release was postponed due to rising tensions in the Gulf region. Sharing the update on social media, Mohanlal wrote, “The past never stays silent… it only waits. Georgekutty arrives, May 21st 2026. #Drishyam3 | Worldwide Release.”
What Are Personality Rights?
Personality rights grant an individual control over how their identity is used and apply in both public and commercial contexts. These rights encompass a person’s name, image, likeness, voice, and signature. Even distinctive expressions and popular catchphrases fall under this protection.
Broadly, personality rights are divided into two categories: the Right of Publicity, which prevents unauthorized commercial exploitation such as in advertisements, promotions, and products, and the Right to Privacy, which protects individuals from intrusive or unauthorized use. This includes deepfake videos, morphed visuals, and fabricated endorsements.
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Rising Legal Trend Among Celebrities
Mohanlal’s petition comes at a time when several high-profile celebrities have sought legal protection for their personality rights. Stars including Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Karan Johar, Hrithik Roshan, Jaya Bachchan, Rishab Shetty, and Akkineni Nagarjuna have also approached courts to secure their identity against unauthorized use.
Earlier, actors Anil Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan obtained legal relief, with courts restricting the unauthorized use of their name, image, and AI-generated content. Recently, the Delhi High Court also granted interim protection to Sonakshi Sinha.
Digital Content and Misuse of Identity
The rapid increase in digital and AI-generated content misuse has raised both legal and ethical concerns. Celebrities have reported that their identity is often exploited in advertisements, promotions, and other commercial channels without consent, impacting their personal and professional rights. Experts suggest that legal protection through personality rights not only safeguards actors but also provides clear guidelines for digital platforms and content creators.
New Release Date and Significance of ‘Drishyam 3’
‘Drishyam 3’, directed by Jeethu Joseph, marks the return of Mohanlal’s iconic character Georgekutty. The new release date of May 21 aligns with his birthday and has heightened anticipation among audiences. The film’s producers noted that adjustments were necessary due to digital platforms and international distribution logistics.
Mohanlal’s legal initiative alongside the film’s adjusted release highlights the increasing importance of identity and digital rights in the film industry. It underscores that protecting celebrity identity in the age of digital and AI-generated content is now a top priority for stakeholders.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
