This Case Comment has been Written by Navya Madhunala. She is a fifth-year BBA LL.B. (Hons.) student at ICFAI Law School. She is an enthusiastic and curious law student who enjoys exploring diverse areas of law through research and legal writing, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and academic growth.

ABSTARCT

This case commentary examines a landmark Bombay High Court decision in International Society for Krishna Consciousness vs. ISKCON Apparel Pvt. Ltd. & Anr affirming that religious and charitable organizations can enforce trademark rights over coined and distinctive marks. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) successfully secured interim relief against a private company misusing its invented term to suggest a false association. By recognizing ISKCON’s exclusive rights and the risk of consumer deception, the Court highlighted that even spiritual institutions build protectable goodwill. The ruling strengthens the position that trademark protection under Indian law extends beyond commercial businesses to non-profits whose unique identities hold significant public trust. This decision sets an important precedent against the unauthorized commercial exploitation of religious and institutional names.