Boman R Irani and Classic Legends Win Yezdi Trademark Case

The Karnataka High Court's Division Bench has delivered a verdict in favour of Boman R Irani, co-founder of Classic Legends, confirming his legal ownership of the Yezdi motorcycle trademark. The judgement, handed down on 27 November, reverses a previous Single Judge decision and represents a pivotal moment for intellectual property rights protection in India. The Karnataka HC determined that Ideal Jawa (India) Ltd., the former manufacturer, had abandoned the trademark following the cessation of production in 1996 and subsequent liquidation in 2001. The organisation neglected to renew trademark registrations and undertook no measures to safeguard the brand throughout a period exceeding 15 years, prompting the court to conclude that any related goodwill had been entirely eliminated.

Irani's Proactive Brand Revival Measures

The court acknowledged that Irani took initiative to resurrect the brand and legitimately secured trademark registrations during 2013-14. He later formed a partnership with Anupam Thareja and the Mahindra Group to create Classic Legends in 2015, with the aim of revitalising India's heritage motorcycle marques.

Historical Family Connection to Yezdi Brand

The Yezdi brand holds particular historical importance for Irani's family. After Jawa's original licensing arrangement with Ideal Jawa concluded in 1969, Irani's father developed the Yezdi insignia, founding what became amongst India's pioneering motorcycle brands. The nomenclature originates from the Persian term for wind.

The judgement highlighted several fundamental principles concerning trademark legislation. The court affirmed that common-law trademark rights exist exclusively through continuous usage, and that trademarks, being intangible assets, require active utilisation and renewal rather than persisting similarly to tangible property. The court additionally ruled that outstanding debts to a company undergoing liquidation cannot be considered equivalent to trademark valuation.

Classic Legends Continues Heritage Brand Manufacturing

Classic Legends, presently a Mahindra Group entity, produces motorcycles under the Yezdi, Jawa, and BSA brand names. The court rejected all outstanding applications and approved all appeals submitted by Irani and Classic Legends.

Following the verdict, Irani stated the ruling "reaffirms that efforts to preserve heritage brands through lawful means are recognised by the judicial system."