MS Dhoni’s application to trademark “Captain Cool” accepted and published, securing rights in sports and entertainment unless opposed within 120 days.
Why in News
Dhoni trademarks Captain Cool title officially securing exclusive rights over the phrase for sports branding .
Fact
MS Dhoni’s trademark application for the title “Captain Cool” was accepted and published on June 16, 2025, by the Trademarks Registry, Kolkata . If unopposed within 120 days, it will be officially granted .
Case Overview
The case pertains to Mahendra Singh Dhoni v. Registrar of Trademarks, where the former Indian cricket captain filed for registration of the trademark “Captain Cool” under Class 41, which covers services related to education, entertainment, training and sports activities . There is no judicial intervention involved as it is an administrative process under the Trademarks Act .
Key Aspects
The key aspects of the case are as follows –
- Dhoni filed the trademark application in June 2023 .
- Accepted and advertised by the Trademarks Registry, Kolkata Office in June 2025 .
- Trademark published in journal on June 16, 2025, triggering a 120-day opposition window .
- The mark is under Class 41, related to sports training and coaching .
- If no objection is raised, the trademark will be formally registered in Dhoni’s name .
Legal Insights
The legal insights of the case are as under –
- Governed by the Trademarks Act, 1999 .
- Section 9 : Absolute grounds for refusal—no descriptive or generic conflict found .
- Section 11 : Relative grounds for refusal—no existing similar mark identified under Class 41 .
- Section 20 : Once advertised, the mark is open to opposition for 4 months .
- Ensures exclusive commercial use rights under Class 41, preventing others from profiting on the phrase .
- Boosts brand protection for Dhoni in sports-related ventures and endorsements .
Conclusion
The acceptance of MS Dhoni’s trademark application strengthens his personal brand . If unopposed, “Captain Cool” will become his legally protected identity in sports and entertainment under Class 41 .
Source- Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
Read also- DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT AND PASSING OFF
