
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, one of the most iconic cricket captains of all time, has officially filed for a trademark on his beloved nickname, 'Captain Cool'. The name, which fans have affectionately used for years to describe Dhoni's calm and composed leadership style, has now become part of his commercial identity. Dhoni seeks exclusive rights to use 'Captain Cool' for sports training, coaching services, and training centers.
The trademark application has been accepted and was published in the official trademark journal on June 16, 2025. Dhoni's legal team faced some initial challenges during the application process. The Trade Marks Registry had raised an objection, as a similar mark was already registered. However, Dhoni's legal representatives successfully argued that 'Captain Cool' had acquired distinctiveness over time, with widespread usage by both fans and the media, making it synonymous with Dhoni's leadership persona.
Mansi Aggarwal, Dhoni's lawyer, highlighted the significance of this case in protecting the personal brand of public figures. She noted that, despite initial objections, the distinct association of 'Captain Cool' with Dhoni was undeniable, reinforcing how stars can leverage their identity to secure their brand rights in business. The registry’s decision reflects the growing importance of personality rights and branding in today’s business landscape, especially in sports and entertainment.