Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 21: The finale of The Great Indian Kapil Show, featuring Akshay Kumar, has landed in controversy after a skit featuring Bollywood’s iconic comic character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte triggered a legal dispute.

Producer Firoz A Nadiadwala has sent a Rs 25 crore legal notice to Netflix and the show’s makers, objecting to comedian Kiku Sharda performing in the guise of Baburao, a role immortalized by Paresh Rawal in the Hera Pheri franchise. “Baburao is not just a character, but the soul of Hera Pheri. No one can misuse it for commercial gain,” Nadiadwala said.

The notice cites copyright and trademark violations, demanding removal of the segment, a written undertaking against future use, a public apology within 24 hours, and monetary compensation. Legal representatives warned of both civil and criminal proceedings if demands are ignored.

Lawyer Sana Raees Khan added, “Unauthorized use of this iconic character is blatant theft for commercial gain. Creative legacy cannot be treated as free commodity.”

Baburao first appeared in the 2000 film Hera Pheri, directed by Priyadarshan, and has since become a cult favourite, with Paresh Rawal’s comic timing making the character beloved across generations. Netflix has yet to comment on the notice.