Dabur seeks an injunction to stop Patanjali from using the alleged infringing packaging and demands compensation for damages caused by the supposed infringement
Accusing the company of copying the trade dress of its toothpaste packaging, Dabur India, a fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) major has filed a lawsuit against Patanjali Ayurved. Dabur claimed that Patanjali’s “Dant Kanti” toothpaste closely resembles the trade dress of its “Dabur Red Toothpaste”. As per the company, it is diluting its brand identity and leading to confusion among consumers.
The legal action, filed in the Delhi High Court, alleges that Patanjali has used similar colours, fonts, and design elements that could mislead consumers into thinking the products are related or from the same manufacturer. Dabur seeks an injunction to stop Patanjali from using the alleged infringing packaging and demands compensation for damages caused by the supposed infringement.
Dabur’s toothpaste segment, which includes well-established brands like Dabur Red, has seen steady growth in India’s highly competitive oral care market. The company asserts that the similarity in trade dress may harm its position in the market by causing confusion among existing and potential customers.
Patanjali, known for its Ayurvedic and herbal products, has rapidly expanded its presence in the FMCG sector and built a strong brand around its natural product offerings. The company has yet to comment publicly on the lawsuit.
This legal dispute highlights the ongoing challenges in India’s FMCG sector, where branding and packaging play a critical role in consumer perception and market share. As the case progresses, the outcome may set a significant precedent for future intellectual property disputes in the industry.
