The TV show Shark Tank India has helped many entrepreneurs, especially startups. But one startup, Dorje Teas, is in trouble. Through subscriptions, they deliver fresh and organic Darjeeling Tea to customers in India. They got into trouble after Sony Pictures Networks India sent them a legal notice.
Dorje Teas, who did well on Shark Tank India, used the show’s footage without permission on YouTube and Meta for promotion. Sony accused them of breaking copyright rules. Now, once a standout contender on the show, Dorje Teas finds itself in a legal mess.
Dorje Teas Faces Legal Trouble After Shark Tank India Appearance
Dorje Teas, a company that delivers fresh and organic Darjeeling Tea to customers across India, is in trouble. They appeared on Shark Tank India last year and received investments totaling Rs 30 lakh for 15% equity. Recently, the co-founder, Sparsh Agarwal, revealed on LinkedIn that they received a legal notice from Sony Pictures Networks India for using clips from their own pitch. Agarwal also mentioned that they’re not the only ones facing such notices from Sony; other startups from Shark Tank India have also received similar legal warnings.
Startups Face Copyright Issues After Shark Tank India
Dorje Teas, along with other startups like Skippi, Assembly, Perfora, Hoovu Fresh, Beyond Snack, Wakao Foods, and Nasher Miles, has encountered copyright problems after appearing on Shark Tank India. Sparsh Agarwal, the co-founder of Dorje Teas, disclosed that they received a notice from Sony Pictures Networks India for using clips from their Shark Tank pitch in YouTube and Meta ads.
Agarwal noted that Sony has targeted every startup that appeared on the show. Despite startups like Dorje Teas investing significant amounts each month to promote Shark Tank India content, Agarwal expressed confusion over Sony’s decision to issue copyright notices, considering the free publicity and brand exposure it provides for the Shark Tank India brand.
Debate Ensues as Startups React to Sony’s Copyright Actions
Sparsh Agarwal criticized Sony for issuing copyright notices, calling it a bad business decision that goes against promoting small startups, especially during Shark Tank Season 3. He questioned how a ‘new India’ could be built this way in a selfie video. While Agarwal received support on social media, some argued that Sony’s actions were technically justifiable.
One content strategist explained that startups like Dorje Teas benefit from sharing content featuring them but not on Sony’s social handles, potentially diverting traffic. They also reminded Agarwal to check his contract for any clauses granting Sony perpetual rights to the content shot during the show. Another user suggested changing perspective, highlighting the mutual promotion benefit between startups and Shark Tank.
Startup Investments and Copyright Disputes
Dorje Teas, dives into copyright law to defend against claims of wrongdoing. He insists their actions aim to boost Shark Tank India’s visibility, questioning Sony’s stance. Agarwal highlights the significant promotional investments made by startups like Dorje Teas and others, emphasizing their role in enhancing the show’s outreach. These investments, he argues, provide valuable free publicity for Shark Tank India.
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