Explained: Row Over Humans of Bombay Case, HONY Founder Reaction

In a globalised digital era, storytelling platforms have flourished, each with its unique narrative style. However, with creativity comes responsibility, and the line between inspiration and infringement sometimes blurs.

Recently, the founder of 'Humans of New York' (HONY), Brandon Stanton, raised his voice against the Indian platform 'Humans of Bombay' (HOB) by filing a lawsuit against 'People of India' (POI) over alleged copyright infringement. This clash of storytelling titans has left the online community buzzing. 

The Birth of 'Humans of Bombay'

To understand the context, let's rewind to 2014 when 'Humans of Bombay' first emerged as a humble Facebook Page. Karishma Mehta, a name synonymous with the heartwarming tales of Mumbai, took the plunge into entrepreneurship at a mere 21 years of age, birthing what would become one of India's most beloved storytelling platforms – 'Humans of Bombay.' Her journey begins in the bustling city of Mumbai, where dreams are woven and realised. Born and raised in this vibrant metropolis, she found her calling in narrating the untold stories of Mumbaikars. In 2014, she introduced the world to 'Humans of Bombay,' a page that would capture the essence of the city through personal anecdotes, struggles, and triumphs. But her journey didn't stop there. As she conducted her very first interview, 'Humans of Bombay' began its meteoric rise, embracing an ever-widening circle of people, including merchants, celebrities, and individuals from all walks of life. It was a platform that celebrated the diversity of Mumbai's spirit.

The Genesis of HOB's Lawsuit Against POI

According to media reports, 'Humans of Bombay' initiated legal action by moving the Delhi High Court. Their plea seeks to restrain 'People of India' from appropriating what they claim to be their "unique format of storytelling." Representing HOB, advocate Abhishek Malhotra asserted that the defendant, POI, not only launched a platform strikingly similar to HOB but also duplicated its videos and photographs, using them on their own portal. The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to POI, with HOB's plea set for a hearing on October 11.

Stanton's Callout: A Matter of Inspiration or Imitation?

Brandon Stanton, the visionary behind 'Humans of New York,' voiced his displeasure regarding the copyright lawsuit against POI. In a candid statement on a social media platform, Stanton called out HOB founder Karishma Mehta, insinuating that HOB had itself drawn inspiration from HONY. Stanton's words were direct: "I've stayed quiet on the appropriation of my work because I think [Humans Of Bombay] shares important stories, even if they've monetized far past anything I'd feel comfortable doing on HONY. But you can't be suing people for what I've forgiven you for."  Stanton's statement opens a dialogue on the fine line between creative inspiration and outright imitation in the realm of storytelling.

I've stayed quiet on the appropriation of my work because I think @HumansOfBombay shares important stories, even if they've monetized far past anything I'd feel comfortable doing on HONY. But you can't be suing people for what I've forgiven you for. https://t.co/0jZM05YyTt

— Brandon Stanton (@humansofny) September 23, 2023

HOB's Response: Defending Intellectual Property

In response to Brandon Stanton's remarks, 'Humans of Bombay' issued an official statement, addressing the founder of HONY. The tone was measured but firm, stating, "It's...shocking that a cryptic assault on our efforts to protect our intellectual property is made in this manner, especially without understanding the background of the case." The statement urged Stanton to gain a comprehensive understanding of the case and HOB's objectives before forming judgments.

Clarification from HOB: Protecting Intellectual Property

A follow-up post on the same social media platform by HOB sought to clarify the matter. In this statement, HOB expressed gratitude to HONY and Brandon Stanton for pioneering the unique storytelling format. They emphasised that the lawsuit revolved around the intellectual property in their posts and not storytelling itself. The statement also shed light on their attempts to resolve the issue amicably before resorting to legal action, underlining their commitment to safeguarding their team's hard work.

We are grateful to HONY & Brandon for starting this storytelling movement.

The suit is related to the IP in our posts & not about storytelling at all.

We tried to address the issue amicably before approaching the Court, as we believe in protecting our team’s hard work.

PFA

— Humans Of Bombay (@HumansOfBombay) September 24, 2023

A Closer Look at the Trolling

Trolls spared no one, and founder Karishma Mehta found herself at the centre of the storm. Social media platforms, particularly 'X,' became hotbeds of criticism aimed at 'Humans of Bombay.' Users expressed their grievances, with some accusing the organisation of promoting a toxic work environment. Allegations of harassment, abuse, unpaid wages, and gruelling work hours surfaced, painting a grim picture of what was once perceived as a beacon of positive storytelling. Some users questioned her ethics, while others took jabs at her for pursuing the copyright infringement case. The online atmosphere became increasingly charged as people voiced their opinions and grievances.

In a digital age marked by the relentless sharing of stories, the 'Humans of Bombay' vs. 'Humans of New York' controversy serves as a reminder that creative expression is a double-edged sword. It can inspire, but it can also lead to contentious legal battles over ownership. It serves as a stark reminder that in the realm of storytelling, even the most heartwarming tales can become entangled in the complexities of law and ethics.

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