An open war between the makers of popular comedy show, "Comedy Nights with Kapil" and actor-comedian Sunil Grover better known as Guthi has been declared.
Grover's recent decision of quitting the show had taken the media by storm. Several reports state that the reason behind Grover's exit was monetary issues.
In a recent interview with Daily Bhaskar, the versatile actor confirmed his disassociation from the show and revealed that a new show was being planned.
"I am working on something of my own. Something away from Comedy Nights With Kapil. Right now, it's too early to say what it is. But those who enjoyed me as Guthi on Kapil's show won't be disappointed by my new avatar," he added.
The actor's comment on starting a show of his own put the CNWK makers in a tizzy as they came out with a notice in leading newspapers claiming their copyright on the character of "Guthi".
The notice published on 20 October's newspapers by Viacom 18 reads: "A certain artist and a stand-up comedian associated with the programme 'Comedy Nights With Kapil' aired on Colors television channels is planning to launch or be associated with other shows wherein the said artist is likely to perform the character of 'Gutthi' or use the mannerisms and characteristic features of 'Gutthi' or any other character played by the artist in the said programme."
"Take notice that Viacom18 has sole, exclusive, absolute and unlimited ownership rights of all the intellectual Property rights of the Artist associated with the programme including the rights in the format of the programme."
Kapil Sharma host of "CNWK" is also the producer of the show and Grover's comment on starting a show of his own on CNWK's charcter might not have gone down well with Kapil.
With the latest developments, it only seems plausible that Grover has to forever bid adieu to the lovable character of Punjabi girl 'Guthi who has enticed the audience with her hilarious and wacky antics in the show.
Given Grover's versatility, it is likely that he may device another out of the box character for his own show, but the bigger questions arises is whether it will live up to the 'Guthi" fame or fall flat.
