Warner Bros sues Indian studio over 'Harry Potter' copyright

New York, Aug 25 (IANS) Hollywood studio Warner Bros are suing Indian producers in relation to a movie they believe infringes the copyright of the "Harry Potter" franchise.

The Warner Bros have filed a lawsuit against Mumbai-based studio Mirchi Movies, who are set to release a film entitled "Hari Puttar - A Comedy of Terrors". Releasing Sept 12, the film follows the life of a 10-year-old Indian boy who moves to Britain, reports contactmusic.com.

Warner Bros believe the name is too similar to the title character of the hugely popular wizard franchise, whose latest film "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" has been pushed back for release until next year.

"We have recently commenced proceedings against parties involved in the production and distribution of a movie entitled 'Hari Puttar'," said a spokesperson for Warner Bros.

The spokesperson added: "Warner Bros values and protects intellectual property rights. However, it is our policy not to discuss publicly the details of any ongoing litigation."

But Mirchi Movies denies any copyright conflict.

"We registered the 'Hari Puttar' title in 2005, and it is unfortunate that Warner Bros has chosen to file a case so close to our film's release. In my opinion, I don't think our title has any similarity or links with 'Harry Potter'," said Munish Purii, chief executive officer, Mirchi Movies.

The case is listed for hearing in Bombay High Court Monday.

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Hari Puttar - A Comedy of Terrors