The Extension of Copyright and Usage Restrictions on Traditional Stories and Epics

Traditional stories and epics like Panchatantra, Jataka Tales, Hitopadesha, Ramayana, and Mahabharata are timeless treasures of human culture. However, understanding the copyright and usage restrictions associated with these stories is crucial for digital creators. This article explores the complexities and nuances of using such stories and their intellectual property challenges.

Copyright and the Original Text

Stories like Panchatantra, Jataka Tales, and Mahabharata have been passed down through generations without rigid copyright protections. These stories remain a collective property of humanity. However, when a contemporary author documents these stories in a specific form or interpretation, copyright issues can arise.

For example, while you can use the Mahabharata storyline as you wish and interpret it, if you adopt an interpretation similar to that documented by authors such as Devdutt Patnaik, you may have to adhere to the copyright rules of the respective author or publisher. “Jaya” by Devdutt Patnaik, for instance, has specific copyright protections.

Usage and Interpretation

While the original text does not carry a copyright, the specific interpretation, such as publications or books, does. When you rely on these secondary sources, you need to consider the source and the individual or company who holds the rights. Publishers, for instance, may record various manuscript versions and their differences. When you use these versions to reproduce the original text, the copyright issues come into play.

Consider the example of Venkateswara Suprabhatam. Although the original text does not carry a copyright, using the audio by MS Subbulakshmi without her permission is a copyright violation. Similarly, if you copy content from a published book, you must seek permission from the publisher or author.

Copyright in Textual Differences

The original texts from different publishers may have some textual differences which do not significantly alter the meaning. When reproducing the original text, you need to decide which version to follow. This is where copyright becomes relevant. If you are using a manuscript or a published version, you must ensure that you are not infringing on the copyright of the actual holder of the manuscript or the publisher.

To avoid copyright issues, it is recommended to reference the original text or specific versions available in the public domain. Libraries and academic institutions often have resources that are free from copyright restrictions. For example, works like Srimad Bhagavatam have critical editions that are protected by copyright, and if you intend to reproduce or use parts of it, you need to seek permission from the publishers.

Translation and Prose Forms

When dealing with translations, the original text, or prose forms in different languages, copyright issues are even more significant. Copying such content without permission is a serious violation of the copyright of the publisher, author, translator, writer, or printer.

For instance, Srimad Bhagavatam by Sri Potana Amatya, translated and published in various forms, carries copyright. If you plan to use or reproduce any part of it, you need to obtain permission from the copyright holders and provide them credit for their work.

To summarize, while the original text of traditional stories and epics may not be subject to strict copyright, the specific interpretations, translations, or reproductions based on published versions do. It is essential to be mindful of the sources and follow the appropriate permissions and credits, especially in today's digital age.

Remember, quoting references, using public domain sources, or obtaining permissions can clear the way for your work and ensure it remains ethically and legally sound.