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Hempushpa vs. Activepushpa: Unpacking the Phonetic Similarity Ruling

Intellectual Property By 0

The court ruled in favor of the petitioner, emphasizing how extensive historical usage and acquired reputation can trump subsequent registrations that appear to capitalize on established goodwill. This decision not only reinforces the protective mechanisms of the Trade Marks Act but also highlights the judiciary’s role in maintaining the purity of the trademark register by eliminating marks that could lead to consumer confusion and unfair trade practices. At its core, the case illustrates the delicate balance between innovation in branding and the safeguarding of legacy marks in competitive markets like pharmaceuticals and ayurvedic products, where phonetic and structural similarities can easily mislead the average consumer.