Bengaluru’s iconic food joint, Vidyarthi Bhavan, has won a trademark dispute against a restaurant in Shimogga. The civil court in Bengaluru restrained the restaurant from using Vidyarthi Bhavan’s registered trademark.
The suit was filed by M/s Vidyarthi Bhavan and S. Arun Kumar Adiga, who stated that the plaintiff is a registered partnership firm that has been operating a vegetarian restaurant since 1956 under the name “Vidyarthi Bhavan”. The brand has garnered a tremendous reputation and goodwill over the years.
Credits – Curly Tales
The suit alleged that Kiran Gowda started VB Vidhathri Bhavan in 2018 and used Vidyarthi Bhavan’s registered trademark, despite having no right to do so. The complainant argued that both businesses operate in the same industry, and the similarity in their names could lead to confusion and challenges.
The defendant had also advertised the opening of VB Vidhathri Bhavan in the local newspapers, with the slogan “Bangalore Food Trend in Shimogga”. The court found the name “VIDHATHRI” to be deceptively similar to “VIDYARTHI” and stated that the common man cannot find much difference between the two.
The court has refused to direct payment of damages of Rs 25,000, as the defendant is running a business in Shimogga, and the plaintiff does not have any restaurant business in the area.
Credits – Business News
Vidyarthi Bhavan is known for its delicious dosas and has become an iconic brand in Bengaluru since its inception in 1956. This legal victory will help protect the brand’s trademark and reputation from unauthorized use by other businesses.
