Copy right info
Rashmee Singh
(Querist) 24 December 2015
This query is : Resolved
One of my Great Grandfather's published a book in 1950's. It was his own literary work. And he died later. all these years, no one bothered about it. But, recently, one of his Grandson's through a daughter, coordinated with other grandsons, and reprinted the book.
I want to know
1. Who will be the legal heir for copyright?
2. Should I take any permission from anyone to publish the book as an ebook (for profit)
3. Should I take permission to translate it to english?
4. How long will the copy right be valid for a book published in 1952 and the author died in 1955.
My intention is to publish the book as an ebook, and any profit from sales, I want to utilize it for a good cause. All his kids died, and its his grand kids and great grand kids who are surviving him.
I don't want to get into any legal issues with anyone as we are all in good terms so far.
Guest
(Expert) 24 December 2015
Dear Rashmee,
You need to take personal consultancy by providing complete details about the author and heirarchy of descendants of the author, with a copy of the first and the last edition of the book published, whether through a publisher, or self by your GGF. Agreement with the publishers, etc.
If you have all these sorts of information/ documents, you can contact me for consultation through email at dcgroup1962@gmail.com
Rajendra K Goyal
(Expert) 24 December 2015
The general rule is that copyright lasts for 60 years. In the case of original literary, dramatic, musical and artistic works the 60-year period is counted from the year following the death of the author. In the case of cinematograph films, sound recordings, photographs, posthumous publications, anonymous and pseudonymous publications, works of government and works of international organisations, the 60-year period is counted from the date of publication.
K.S.Srinivas
(Expert) 29 December 2015
Unless the author specifically willed his
copyright to someone, and unless they're willing to grant you reprint
rights, it's going to be a very long time until you can reprint this
book.
T. Kalaiselvan, Advocate
(Expert) 03 January 2016
