Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions has moved the Bombay high court against Dubai-based Humble Motion Pictures FZCO alleging wrongful termination of a services contract linked to upcoming Punjabi film Vyaah Kartaare Da.
The petition, filed under section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, has sought urgent interim protection during the pendency of arbitration. On February 12, 2026, Humble sought time to file a reply. The matter is scheduled to be heard next on February 18.
According to the petition, the services agreement dated December 10, 2025 was structured for Dharma to render consultancy, marketing and allied services for the Punjabi film and to enable recovery of losses of about Rs. 7.25 crore suffered on an earlier film produced jointly by Humble and Dharma. Under the agreement, Dharma claims that it had no obligation to bear production costs and was entitled to various revenue shares until recoupment of a fixed amount of Rs. 7.03 crore.
As per the plea, after Dharma promoted the film through its official social media handle, Humble abruptly dashed off an email on January 21, 2026 to terminate the services agreement on the ground that it was no longer desirous of availing of Dharma’s services.
According to the petition, the contract contains no termination-at-will clause. Dharma has also maintained that no breach of contract is alleged against it and that Humble has already benefited from Dharma’s brand association and goodwill.
Dharma has sought injunctive relief restraining Humble from acting in furtherance of the termination email and from acting contrary to the services agreement. It has also prayed for protective monetary measures including directions to Humble to pay or deposit 50% of overflow from cinemas and other revenues from the film, and to furnish detailed financial accounts. It has also sought directions to Humble to deposit Rs. 7.03 crore with the court.