Kanshi TV under scrutiny for alleged unauthorised broadcast of Bollywood films

Birmingham-based community broadcaster Kanshi TV (on Sky 765), which primarily serves the Ravidassia community, has come under scrutiny following the airing of the Bollywood film ‘Veer Zaara’ on Tuesday evening. The screening appears to have taken place without proper authorisation.

The film, owned by Yash Raj Films, is currently licensed to JioStar, a joint venture between Star TV and Viacom18. A source linked to Yash Raj Films confirmed to BizAsiaLive.com that the company was unaware of any licensing arrangement permitting Kanshi TV to broadcast the title.

Furthermore, Kanshi TV has scheduled several other high-profile films for broadcast this week, including ‘Batti Gul Meter Chalu’ (2018), ‘Amar Prem’ (1972), ‘Saajan’ (1991), ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh’ (2019), and ‘Zameer’ (1975). These titles are also believed to be under the rights of major broadcasters and distributors. However, Kanshi TV is yet to confirm any such arrangements.

The films are being aired nightly at 21:30, with repeat telecasts at 01:00 the following morning.

BizAsiaLive.com has reached out to Kanshi TV, as well as relevant broadcasters and rights holders, for official comment.