MS Dhoni's 'Captain Cool' Trademark Request Faces Legal Challenges

Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni aka MS Dhoni's attempt to trademark the phrase "Captain Cool" has met with opposition from KAnalysis Attorneys at Law. Dhoni, who once led the Indian cricket team, sought to register this term in June 2023. The trademark office in Kolkata accepted his application and published it on June 16, 2025, allowing a 120-day window for objections.

The law firm, represented by advocate Nilanshu Shekhar, has raised several issues regarding Dhoni's application. Initially, the application was filed on the basis that the term was "proposed to be used." Later, Dhoni's team amended it to claim usage since 2008. However, no evidence such as advertisements or affidavits was provided to support this claim.

Concerns Over MS Dhoni's Trademark Application

KAnalysis Attorneys at Law highlighted procedural errors in the trademark registry's handling of Dhoni's application. They pointed out that a previously registered trademark issue remains unresolved. The registry failed to send mandatory notices about this matter, which they argue is a procedural oversight.

The law firm also noted that "Captain Cool" is widely recognized as a descriptive term within the cricketing community long before its association with Dhoni. They argue that without substantial proof of commercial use or recognition, the claim of acquired distinctiveness is unfounded.

"The Registry accepted the mark despite an unresolved citation of a prior registered trademark and without serving mandatory rectification notices," stated KAnalysis Attorneys at Law. They further added that there was no substantial proof of widespread recognition or commercial exploitation of "Captain Cool" in relevant services.

The firm's statement emphasized that no supporting affidavits or commercial evidence like invoices were submitted with Dhoni's application. This lack of documentation raises questions about the legitimacy of claiming prior use since 2008.