Zee sues Nykaa over alleged copyright misuse in Instagram reels

The lawsuit argues that Zee’s licensing arrangement with Meta Platforms allows use of its music catalogue on Instagram for non-commercial purposes by users, but not for brand-led commercial promotions

by e4m Staff
Published: May 7, 2026 4:04 PM | 1 min read

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against Nykaa for allegedly using Zee-owned songs in promotional Instagram reels without authorization.
The lawsuit, filed in the Delhi High Court, seeks damages of nearly ₹2 crore and claims that Nykaa did not secure necessary licenses for the music used in its branded content.
Zee's licensing agreement with Meta Platforms permits the use of its music for non-commercial purposes but prohibits brand-led commercial promotions.
Nykaa's legal counsel stated that the disputed Instagram links have been removed, and the case is set for a hearing on May 26, potentially impacting music licensing practices in digital marketing.

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd has reportedly filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against beauty and fashion retailer Nykaa, alleging unauthorised use of Zee-owned songs in promotional Instagram reels.

As per reports, Zee has sought damages of nearly ₹2 crore, claiming Nykaa used copyrighted music tracks in branded promotional content without securing the necessary licences.

The lawsuit, reportedly filed in the Delhi High Court on April 3, argues that Zee’s licensing arrangement with Meta Platforms allows the use of its music catalogue on Instagram for non-commercial purposes by users, but not for brand-led commercial promotions.

Reports suggest the legal filing includes references to multiple Instagram reels in which Nykaa allegedly used Zee-owned songs in promotional content aimed at marketing products across its social media platforms.

During a brief court hearing, Nykaa’s legal counsel reportedly informed the court that the disputed links had already been removed.

Neither Zee nor Nykaa has publicly commented on the matter so far.

The case is expected to draw attention across the advertising, influencer marketing and digital content ecosystem, especially as brands increasingly rely on short-form video and music-led content for social media engagement. Industry observers believe the matter could trigger closer scrutiny around music licensing practices in branded digital campaigns.

As per reports, the matter is scheduled to come up for hearing again on May 26.