Delhi Court Rules Against Bengaluru Restaurant's Use of 'Carnatic'

A Delhi court has ruled that a Bengaluru restaurant cannot use the name “Carnatic,” determining it is misleadingly similar to the associated trademark held by the renowned Carnatic Cafe chain in Delhi.

This legal challenge originated when Lemonpepper Hospitality Pvt Ltd attempted to brand its food business with the name “Carnatic.” The owner of Carnatic Cafe, based in Delhi, initiated a trademark infringement case, contending that the Bengaluru establishment's name was unfairly leveraging the recognition and brand equity developed by their restaurant.

In a decision dated October 29, District Judge Neelam Singh ruled in favour of Carnatic Cafe, concluding that the plaintiff had adequately demonstrated infringement of its trademark. The court identified the actions of the defendants as instances of passing off and unfair trade practices linked to the use of an effectively identical name.

The ruling included a permanent injunction against Lemonpepper Hospitality, prohibiting its directors, employees, and representatives from using the term “Carnatic” or any closely resembling name for food services. Additionally, they were forbidden from utilizing the domain name www.carnaticrestaurant.com or any similar websites associated with the disputed mark.

As part of the court's decision, Rs 50,000 was awarded in compensatory and punitive damages, along with Rs 10,000 to cover litigation expenses to Carnatic Cafe.

This case highlights the increasing focus on trademark safeguarding in India’s burgeoning food and hospitality sector, an area where brand identity plays a pivotal role in establishing consumer trust and recognition.