Telegram is the new Palika for pirated films
Telegram channels and bots have transformed into India’s modern underground multiplex, replacing traditional piracy hubs like Palika Bazaar. Pirates can record films in theater in as little as four seconds and upload them within three seconds to Telegram, enabling near-instant distribution. A recent example involves viewers pirating Brad Pitt’s F1 film during screening, prompting producers and cinemas to enhance surveillance. The movie Sikander reportedly lost ₹91 crore to such piracy. Studios now use John Doe court orders to block infringing websites and Telegram links, and they employ anti-piracy agents to detect leaks via Google and manual monitoring. Although cinemas argue they are also victims, they are being urged to strengthen security and staff vigilance to curb the rapid spread of pirated films.
