Delhi High Court Bars Use of ‘Ratan Tata Icon Award’; Considers Declaring ‘Ratan Tata’ a Well-Known Trademark

New Delhi, February 9, 2025 – The Delhi High Court has restrained Rajat Srivastava from hosting an award ceremony under the name ‘Ratan Tata Icon Award’ following a lawsuit filed by Sir Ratan Tata Trust and Tata Trusts for intellectual property (IP) infringement. The Court also barred Srivastava from using any logos, images, or references associated with Ratan Tata and Tata Trusts, reinforcing the protection of the Tata Group’s brand identity.

‘Ratan Tata’ as a Well-Known Trademark?

In a significant observation, Justice Mini Pushkarna remarked on the potential recognition of ‘Ratan Tata’ as a well-known trademark due to his immense public recognition.

“This Court notes that Tata is a well-known mark. Late Mr. Ratan Tata is a well-known figure. His name itself is liable to be protected.”

The Court is now considering whether Ratan Tata should be legally recognized as a well-known trademark, strengthening legal protection against unauthorized commercial use of his name.

Defendant Agrees to Compliance

During the proceedings, Srivastava, along with his company Yuci Mentors Private Limited, agreed to cease using Ratan Tata’s name and cancel the planned awards. However, the Court has sought an undertaking from the defendants to ensure compliance. The case is scheduled for a follow-up hearing on February 12, 2025, for compliance verification.

Allegations: Fraudulent Use of Tata Brand

The lawsuit centers around the unauthorized use of the TATA trademarks and the name and image of Ratan Tata, which the plaintiffs argue misled the public and harmed their reputation.

According to the suit, Srivastava and his company allegedly organized fraudulent events under names such as ‘Ratan Tata National Icon Award’, falsely claiming an association with Tata Trusts and Ratan Tata. Despite receiving a takedown notice from the plaintiffs in December 2024, the defendants allegedly continued promoting these events across social media and their website, prompting legal action.

Legal Action and Compensation Sought

The plaintiffs have sought:

A permanent injunction against the unauthorized use of their trademarks, logos, and Ratan Tata’s name.

₹2 crore in damages for reputational harm.

Legal Representation

The Tata Group was represented by Senior Advocate Rajeev Nayar, along with Advocates Pravin Anand and Achuthan Sreekumar from Anand & Anand.

With the Court now considering whether Ratan Tata should be classified as a well-known trademark, this case could set an important precedent for protecting personal names of distinguished public figures from unauthorized commercial exploitation.