New Delhi: In a major relief for families, event organisers, and the hospitality sector, the Central Government has clarified that no music copyright licence fee is payable for the performance of musical works during weddings and related social functions, putting an end to confusion over unauthorised demands for licence fees.
The clarification comes amid concerns raised by the public over notices and demands issued by certain copyright societies and agencies seeking licence fees for playing music at wedding ceremonies and associated celebrations. The Centre has reiterated that such events are exempt under the provisions of the Copyright Act.
According to the government, weddings and customary social festivities connected with marriages, including related functions, do not require organisers or families to obtain a copyright licence for the performance of musical works. The clarification aims to prevent unnecessary harassment and ensure that people celebrating private family occasions are not subjected to unwarranted licence fee demands.
The Centre has also cautioned against misleading claims regarding copyright fees for such events and has urged the public to be aware of the legal provisions governing the use of music at weddings. The move is expected to provide much-needed clarity to families, banquet halls, hotels, and event organisers who have often faced uncertainty over copyright compliance during marriage celebrations.
The clarification has been widely welcomed, as it removes ambiguity surrounding the issue and reassures the public that traditional wedding celebrations and related social functions can continue without the burden of paying music copyright licence fees, provided they fall within the exemption provided under the law.
