Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; March 21, 2017)

In January 2016, Sonam Kapoor and sister Rhea announced their passion project, a chick flick titled Veere Di Wedding. Helmed by Khoobsurat director Shashank Ghosh, the comedy-drama stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar and Shikha Talsania.

The film’s shooting was to kick off in mid-2016, but was deferred after Kareena Kapoor Khan confirmed her pregnancy. While Kareena, in her last interview to mid-day, said shooting would begin in May, the producers are now facing another challenge.

Filming for another production (Veerey Ki Wedding) is already underway, with cast members Jimmy Sheirgill and debutante actress Diljott, having completed 50 per cent of shooting.

The almost identical names have bothered the Kapoors, who claim to have registered the title first. In a letter written to the Film Makers Combine (FMC), Sonam’s father, veteran actor Anil Kapoor, has urged for intervention.

Veerey Ki Wedding director Ashuu Trikha says they had acquired a copyright and trademark for the title, apart from registering it with their association, Indian Motion Pictures Producers Association (IMPAA). Bollywood film producers are associated with different trade associations affiliated to the FMC, which takes the final decision. “The association suggests that a trademark supersedes any other registration. Legally, we have supported our title with everything,” he tells mid-day.

Shooting for the songs, including the title track of the romantic-actioner, is complete, says Trikha. Following a packed schedule next week, 80 per cent of the film will be ready. Co-producer Chandan Bakshi says that though IMPAA had initially asked them to change the title, they gave the team a green signal after learning of the trademark and that a major part of the film had been shot.

A senior member of IMPAA said, “Anil will have to choose a new title, since shooting is yet to commence for his film. That’s the only way out.”

Anil, who is shooting in London, remained unavailable for comment. The film’s spokesperson said, “The film title, Veere Di Wedding, has been registered by Anil Kapoor Film Company and has been so since 2015. The makers are going ahead as planned, without any change as opposed to the speculation of a title change."