Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has refused to settle a trademark dispute with Champak magazine. The issue concerns the IPL’s AI-powered robotic dog named “Champak.” Publishers of the magazine offered to drop their case if IPL stops using the name next season — but BCCI declined
Champak Magazine Offers Settlement to Avoid Court Battle
Delhi Press Patra Prakashan, publisher of the children’s comic, filed a lawsuit claiming that using “Champak” commercially during IPL infringes its trademark. They offered to end the suit if BCCI agrees not to use the name again in the upcoming season and mediates the matter
BCCI Declines Mediation, Citing Commercial Needs
BCCI informed the Delhi High Court that a simple promise not to reuse the name isn’t enough. They said many commercial factors go into naming the robot, and rejected mediation, stating they plan to legally defend their usage
Court Proceedings and Next Hearing Scheduled
Justice Saurabh Banerjee heard the case and refused an interim injunction, noting the publishers did not clearly prove unfair advantage or dilution yet. BCCI has filed its response, and next hearing is scheduled for September
Arguments from Both Sides
- Champak magazine: The name “Champak” has been used by their brand since 1968 and is now linked to the IPL’s use, weakening their trademark
- BCCI’s defense: “Champak” is a common Indian name (even a flower), and the robotic dog’s name came from fan voting tied to TV characters—not tied to the magazine.
The judge also questioned why the publishers hadn’t objected to Virat Kohli’s nickname “Chiku,” a character also in the magazine
Why This Case Matters
- Brand Protection: Champak wants to see its trademark rights respected.
- Commercial Value: BCCI argues the robot’s name is part of IPL’s brand and fan engagement strategy.
This case could define how common names and fan-suggested names are treated under trademark law.
What Happens Next?
Both parties have submitted their official statements. The case will return to court in September. If BCCI loses, it may have to rename the robot or compensate the magazine. If BCCI wins, it may continue using fan-chosen names freely.
Summary
BCCI has firmly rejected the settlement proposed by Champak magazine, choosing to fight the trademark case over “Champak” in court. With key hearings ahead, the outcome will shape how trademark rights interact with popular culture and sports branding.
