BCCI Faces Trademark Dispute Over IPL Robot Dog ‘Champak’
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is embroiled in a legal controversy following the naming of its AI-powered robotic dog, ‘Champak’, introduced during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Delhi Press Patra Prakashan Pvt Ltd, the publisher of the long-standing children’s magazine ‘Champak’, has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit in the Delhi High Court, alleging unauthorized use of their registered trademark.
The robotic dog, developed in collaboration with technology firms wTVision and Omnicam, made its debut at the Arun Jaitley Stadium during a match between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals. Equipped with advanced features, including high-definition cameras, the robot interacts with players and fans, performing tasks like coin tosses and capturing unique on-field moments.
Trademark Concerns and Legal Proceedings
Delhi Press contends that the use of the name ‘Champak’ for the robotic dog infringes upon its registered trademark, potentially diluting the brand’s identity and causing confusion among its readership. The publisher argues that the name’s association with a commercial entity like the IPL could mislead the public and harm the magazine’s reputation.
In the initial hearing, Justice Saurabh Banerjee acknowledged the longstanding presence of the ‘Champak’ brand but refrained from granting an interim injunction against the BCCI. The court has directed the BCCI to submit a written response within four weeks, with the next hearing scheduled for July 9.
BCCI’s Defense and Public Reaction
Representing the BCCI, Senior Advocate J Sai Deepak argued that the name ‘Champak’ is not exclusive to the magazine, noting its use in other contexts, such as a character in the popular television series ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’. He emphasized that the name for the robotic dog was chosen through a fan poll, reflecting public preference rather than a deliberate branding strategy by the BCCI.
The introduction of ‘Champak’ has garnered significant attention, with fans and players engaging with the robotic dog during matches. Its interactive features and presence on social media platforms have contributed to its popularity, making it a notable addition to the IPL’s entertainment offerings.
