Sony International has initiated legal action in Sri Lanka after issuing a formal cease and desist notice to a local television broadcaster over alleged violations of its intellectual property rights.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Sony International served the broadcaster with a legal notice demanding the immediate cessation of the production and broadcast of Jeevithayata Kotiyak (sometimes transliterated as Jeewithetha Kotiyak) by local broadcaster Swarnavahini, which Sony claims unlawfully reproduces elements of the globally recognized Who Wants to Be a Millionaire television format, known as Sirasa Lakshapathi in Sri Lanka. Sony Pictures Television holds exclusive rights to the format in Sri Lanka, which has already been licensed to another local channel. 

Sony alleges that the disputed programme constitutes an unauthorized local adaptation of the format, thereby infringing on its IP rights. The cease and desist notice calls for the immediate termination of all related production activities and the withdrawal of the programme from broadcast. Both shows have been hosted by TV show host and journalist Chandana Sooriyabandara.

The notice further warns that failure to comply will result in the commencement of formal legal proceedings without further notice. These proceedings may include claims for substantial financial damages arising from the alleged infringement.

As of late November 2025, the management of the local broadcaster is reportedly in the process of reviewing the legal notice and assessing its legal and commercial exposure. The situation is understood to have triggered significant internal concern, given the substantial investment already made in the programme. This includes the recruitment of a high-profile television personality from a rival network to front the show – an investment that now sits at the centre of the dispute outlined in Sony’s notice.

In a public notice issued November 20, 2025, EAP Broadcasting, which owns Swarnavahini, says that it “categorically states that these claims are false, misleading, and do not reflect the factual or legal position concerning the said program or its production. Jeewitheta Kotiyak has been developed and produced in strict compliance with all applicable legal, contractual, and industry standards, and no infringement or improper conduct has occurred on the part of EAP Broadcasting Company Limited.”

Sony Pictures has previously been involved in high-profile rights-related disputes in Sri Lanka, notably with Sri Lanka Cricket, concerning issues of transparency and governance in media rights bidding processes.

Separately, Sony continues to expand its commercial footprint in the Sri Lankan market. Sony LIV, the company’s digital streaming platform, recently entered into a partnership with Dialog Axiata PLC to provide content streaming services to local audiences.

- Excel V. Dyquiangco