Warner Bros. sues Indian producer over 'Hari Puttar' film title
25 Aug 2008, 1436 Hrs

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New Delhi, Aug 25 (ANI): A Mumbai-based producer/distributor has been sued by Warner Bros. for the title of its upcoming film 'Hari Puttar -- A Comedy of Terrors', which they believe is a tad too similar to their Harry Potter franchise.

The case would come up for hearing in the Bombay High Court on Aug 25, reports China Daily.

'Hari Puttar', a comedy that centres on a 10-year-old Indian boy whose family moves to England, is slated for a September 12 release.

"We have recently commenced proceedings against parties involved in the production and distribution of a movie entitled 'Hari Puttar'," said London-based Warners spokeswoman Deborah Lincoln.

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

Mirchi Movies CEO Munish Purii said that they couldn't comment on the issue now.

"Since the case is sub-judice, we can't comment as of now," said Mirchi Movies CEO Munish Purii.

"However, we registered the 'Hari Puttar' title in 2005, and it's unfortunate that Warner 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,"' he added. (ANI)