No music licensing required for marriages and social events, HRAWI clarifies amid confusion

The Association further emphasised that the Government of India has not amended or revoked its prior notice regarding music licences for weddings.

The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has issued a public notice, clarifying the legal position regarding the requirement for music licensing at weddings and other social gatherings held at hospitality establishments. The clarification comes in response to confusion caused by certain private agencies claiming that music licensing was now mandatory for such events.

HRAWI has reaffirmed that there has been no change in the law, and that music played during marriage processions and related festivities is exempt from licensing requirements. The Association emphasised that no infringement occurs when music is played at these events. Any private agency demanding payment for music licensing for weddings or associated celebrations is acting in violation of Section 52(1)(za) of the Copyright Act.

Pradeep Shetty, Spokesperson & Secretary of HRAWI, stated, “We have received reports of private agencies misleading hotels and guests about the necessity of music licensing for marriages and related events. Some are citing the Goa High Court order from August 13, 2024, and the DPIIT’s Public Notice from November 7, 2024, misinterpreting them as new legal requirements for music licences.”

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) issued a Public Notice on July 24, 2023, confirming that music licences are not required for marriages and related social events under Section 52(1)(za) of the Copyright Act, 1957. While a subsequent notice dated November 7, 2024, placed the earlier notice “under abeyance,” HRAWI clarified that the newer notice merely provided an explanatory update and did not introduce any new legal obligations.

Nirav Gandhi, Senior Vice President of HRAWI, added, “The Goa High Court order does not address the music licensing issue for weddings and related social events. Any suggestion that it negates the exemption under Section 52(1)(za) is incorrect. The law remains unchanged: music at marriages and associated celebrations is exempt from licensing and royalty fees.”

The Association further emphasised that the Government of India has not amended or revoked its prior notice regarding music licences for weddings. The DPIIT’s November 2024 notice does not impose any new licensing requirements for marriage-related events. With the wedding season in full swing, HRAWI has circulated a warning to its members to protect the public from misleading claims and unlawful fees from private agencies.

The Association has urged heightened vigilance to avoid harassment and ensure consumers are not subjected to unnecessary payments.

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