By The Sampadak Express
Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has officially trademarked the iconic title ‘Captain Cool’, cementing his legacy both on and off the field. The moniker, long associated with Dhoni’s composed demeanor during his tenure as the captain of Team India and the Chennai Super Kings, is now legally his intellectual property.
Trademark Battle Won After Two-Year Legal Dispute
Dhoni had filed for the trademark in 2023, aiming to protect the phrase under intellectual property rights. However, the application faced resistance when a third party raised objections, leading to a prolonged legal tussle. After nearly two years, the court ruled in Dhoni’s favor, affirming that the sobriquet ‘Captain Cool’ is intrinsically linked to his public image.
In a significant observation, the senior examiner of trademarks, Devika Shukla, stated:
“The applicant, Mr. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, a renowned public figure and former captain of the Indian national cricket team, is widely recognized in India and internationally by the sobriquet ‘CAPTAIN COOL’. The phrase is uniquely associated with his persona and has acquired a distinct secondary meaning in the realm of sports and entertainment services.”
Shukla added that the mark was supported by extensive media coverage and consumer recognition, and hence, the objection under Section 11(1) was waived and the trademark was accepted.
Possible Plans for Sports Academy
The trademark, registered under Class 41, specifically covers categories like sports training, coaching services, and training facilities. This has sparked speculation that Dhoni might revisit his earlier plans of opening a cricket academy. Notably, he had signed a deal for the same but withdrew in 2021.
With this trademark now in his name, Dhoni could leverage the ‘Captain Cool’ brand for future ventures in the sports training and education space.
A Legacy Beyond the Field
This move not only protects Dhoni’s identity but also sets the stage for new business opportunities under a title that fans across the world have long used to describe him. With the legal seal now in place, ‘Captain Cool’ is more than just a nickname it’s a brand.
