Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Business Desk
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has achieved a historic first by securing trademark registration for the Taj sonic sound, making it the first sound mark registered in the Indian hospitality sector. This milestone marks a significant evolution in how hospitality brands protect and express their identity.
Commenting on the development, Rajendra Misra, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, IHCL, said that being recognised as the world’s strongest hotel brand comes with the responsibility to lead in all facets, including brand equity protection. He added that the sound mark registration reinforces IHCL’s pioneering role in intellectual property and aligns with the evolving ways in which guests engage with brands.
The registration legally protects Taj’s distinctive sonic identity, recognising sound as a core brand asset. In today’s experience-driven marketplace, sonic branding plays a critical role in shaping emotional memory, strengthening recall, and building trust beyond visual elements. As hospitality brands move towards immersive, multi-sensory experiences, sound has emerged as a vital touchpoint for emotional connection.
Earlier, Taj had also secured trademark protection for the three-dimensional shape of the Taj Mahal Hotel, Bombay, reflecting a long-standing commitment to safeguarding unique elements of its heritage through progressive intellectual property strategies.
IHCL was represented in this matter by Fidus Law Chambers, led by Managing Partner Shwetasree Majumder, along with Partner Astha Negi and Senior Associate Umang Gola. The achievement further cements IHCL’s position as a leader in innovation, legacy protection, and brand stewardship within the Indian hospitality industry.
