Nykaa Seeks To Include Meta In Music Copyright Dispute With Zee

Fashion and beauty retailer Nykaa has approached the Delhi High Court seeking to make Meta a party to an ongoing copyright dispute filed by Zee Entertainment over the alleged commercial use of copyrighted music on Instagram Reels.

According to court filings reviewed by Reuters, Zee Entertainment has accused Nykaa of using its copyrighted songs in promotional Instagram content without authorisation and is seeking damages worth approximately $210,000.

In a filing dated May 19, Nykaa argued that Meta should be included in the proceedings, stating that the social media giant is best placed to clarify whether the retailer’s use of music clips on Instagram violated the platform’s licensing terms.

The dispute centres around Zee’s licensing arrangement with Meta. Zee has reportedly argued that while its agreement allows individuals to use its music in Instagram posts and reels, the permission applies only to non-commercial usage and not branded promotional campaigns.

Nykaa has also requested that the matter be referred to mediation before proceeding further in court, according to the filings.

Legal experts believe the case could have broader implications for the creator economy, influencer marketing and brand-led content on social media platforms, particularly around how copyrighted music is commercially used in short-form video content.

The matter also adds to the growing number of copyright and licensing disputes within India’s entertainment and media sectors. Zee is currently involved in separate legal battles related to music and film licensing, including disputes with the Reliance-Disney joint venture over alleged usage and licensing violations tied to entertainment content.