Taj Hotels on January 7 secured trademark registration for a sound mark, which grants statutory protection to audio identifier used in connection with its hospitality and related services.
The registration was granted in favour of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) which operates the Taj Hotels brand. The mark is registered with effect from April 17, 2025, the date of application.
Trademark records show that the registered sound mark consists of musical notes D E E G A E in D Major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of 130 beats per minute. The application was filed as a sound mark under the Trade Marks Act, a category that continues to see limited but increasing registrations in India.
The registration protects the brand’s sonic identity as a trademark, recognising sound as a distinct brand asset in an increasingly experience-driven marketplace where hospitality brands rely on multi-sensory consumer engagement.
The sound mark was registered across Classes 9, 35 and 43 covering software and mobile applications for hotel booking and accommodation management, advertising and promotion of hotel services, administration of customer loyalty programmes as well as temporary accommodation and services for providing food and drink
The registration is valid for 10 years from the date of application and is renewable for further ten-year periods in accordance with the Act.
Registry records show that IHCL had sought expedited processing of the application by filing Form TM-M, citing business requirements for early registration, along with payment of the prescribed fee
Commenting on the development, Rajendra Misra, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, IHCL, said, “Being recognised as the world’s strongest hotel brand carries with it the responsibility to lead all facets including how brand equity is protected. This sound mark registration reinforces our position as a pioneer in brand protection, reflecting a forward-looking approach to intellectual property that aligns with the evolving ways in which guests engage with and connect with our brands.”
IHCL was represented in the trademark proceedings by a team from Fidus Law Chambers comprising Managing Partner Shwetasree Majumder, Partner Astha Negi and Senior Associate Umang Gola acting on its behalf
[See Registration Certificate]