Latest news with #CaptainCool
NDTV
6 hours ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
'Some Like To Play With Fire': MS Dhoni's Humorous Marriage Advice Wins Internet, Video Viral
Former Indian cricketer MS Dhoni is known for his calmness on the cricket field, but those who have followed him for the last two decades know that he can be a jovial person when around his family and friends. A similar side of Dhoni was on display when he made an appearance at a wedding and raised a toast to the groom and bride, albeit in his own cheeky way. The now-viral video shows Dhoni offering humorous marital advice, which has attracted the internet's interest, with social media users amazed by his comedic timing. The Chennai Super Kings player was attending the wedding of Utkarsh Sanghvi and Dhvani Kanungo, where he took to the stage and shared relatable insights about marriage. "Marriage is a very good thing. You were the one in a hurry to do it. Some people like to play with fire. He's one of them," said Dhoni in Hindi. "Now Utkarsh also has this illusion. My answer is the same as always. Every husband here is in the same boat. It hardly matters whether you've won a World Cup or not. If your husband is angry, don't say anything in that moment. We cool down in 5 minutes. We know our power," he added. Concluding his message, Dhoni said: "Actually, these jokes - men laugh more. I don't know why. All the very best and congratulations." While stepping down the stage, the crowd, akin to any stadium across the world, started chanting "Dhoni! Dhoni!". Watch the viral video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Social Media Management Waale (@smmwaale) Also Read | US Startup Claims To Have Found New Way To Make 5,000-Kg Of Gold Every Year As of the last update, the video had garnered over 4.2 million views and hundreds of comments, with the majority in awe of Captain Cool's comedic avatar. "Is there anything which thala can't do," said one user while another added: "Captain Cool doing standup in his free time after retiring." A third commented: "THALA did graduation in marriage and love department." One of the greatest captains of the Indian cricket team, Dhoni, retired from international cricket in 2020 but has been playing for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
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Business Standard
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
MS Dhoni wants to trademark 'Captain Cool'; legal experts raise flags
Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni last month filed an application to trademark 'Captain Cool', the sobriquet long linked to his calm and composed demeanour on the field. Dhoni thus joins the growing list of Indian celebrities seeking intellectual property rights to protect their name and brand value. In 2023, actor Amitabh Bachchan secured legal protection for his personality rights, safeguarding the commercial use of his name, image, voice, and other distinctive attributes. Soon after, actor Anil Kapoor obtained an order from the Delhi High Court restraining unauthorised use of his name, likeness, voice, image, or elements of his persona — including his iconic catchphrase 'jhakaas' — for monetary gain. Similarly, in 2024, Jackie Shroff was granted protection by the Delhi High Court, shielding his name, image, voice, likeness, and signature catchphrase 'bhidu' from unauthorised commercial exploitation. However, legal experts say Dhoni's case is materially different. Unlike the above examples, Dhoni's application involves trademarking a fan-bestowed nickname rather than his personal name or a phrase uniquely coined — or used — by him. Nilanshu Shekhar, founding partner at Delhi-based law firm KAnalysis, said there's a critical distinction between persona/personality rights and trademark rights. 'Though persona rights are part of trademark rights, they're not the same. 'Captain Cool' is not intrinsically linked to Mahendra Singh Dhoni's personality in the way 'MSD' is,' he explained. 'One cannot monopolise a generic term like 'Captain Cool.' Any calm and composed person, celebrity or otherwise, could be described that way,' he said. 'Moreover, there are glaring irregularities in the trademark application approval, which we have challenged.' Dhoni filed his trademark application through the Trademarks Registry's Kolkata office under Class 41, which covers education, training, entertainment, sporting, and cultural activities. The application was accepted and advertised in the Trademark Journal on June 16, 2025. After filing, applications are examined by the registrar, and if found acceptable, published in the Trademark Journal to allow for public objections. Dhoni's application is currently at this stage. If no opposition is upheld within 120 days, the trademark is registered. Otherwise, the matter proceeds into a quasi-judicial process involving evidence, counter-statements, and hearings. In Dhoni's case, two formal objections have already been raised. The first came from Shekhar-led KAnalysis, which objected on grounds including procedural flaws, lack of evidence showing prior commercial use, and the generic nature of the phrase 'Captain Cool'. Last week, Delhi-based lawyer Ashutosh Choudhary also lodged an objection, arguing that the phrase is too common and descriptive to warrant exclusive ownership. It is frequently used to describe any calm and composed sports personality, he contended. Cashing in on fandom Legal experts also caution that allowing individuals to monopolise fan-given titles risks setting a problematic precedent. 'For instance, many southern movie stars like Prabhas, Krishnam Raju, and Ambarish have been widely known as 'Rebel Stars.' Such terms belong to popular culture and collective expression,' said Vishwas H Devaiah, professor at BITS Law School. 'Turning them into private commercial property undermines the public domain and the free use of language — especially when the phrase wasn't created by the celebrity seeking trademark protection.' Devaiah added that Dhoni's application hinges on proving that the public strongly associates 'Captain Cool' specifically with commercial offerings under his control — a link that has not yet been clearly established. 'Fans often give such titles affectionately, with no intention of enabling their commercial monopolisation,' he said. 'Granting trademark rights in these instances may have a chilling effect on creative expression and commercial speech, especially for journalists, content creators, and small businesses referencing public figures in good faith,' he added. Akshat Pande, managing partner at law firm Alpha Partners, warned that if the 'Captain Cool' trademark goes through, it could trigger a wave of similar attempts by celebrities to trademark nicknames given to them by fans. 'The commercial value of a celebrity's persona is immense, and fan-given names often become synonymous with their brand,' he said. More likely than not, Dhoni's attempt would pave the way for other celebrities to seek commercial control over public nicknames with significant brand value, Devaiah added. 'Phrases like 'Thalaiva' (Rajinikanth), 'Dada' (Sourav Ganguly), or 'King Khan' (Shah Rukh Khan) are deeply embedded in fan culture and could become attractive for trademark protection,' he observed. Ultimately, Dhoni's application will hinge on whether 'Captain Cool' is deemed sufficiently distinctive beyond fandom to qualify for trademark protection. The outcome could shape how trademark bodies or courts handle celebrity monikers in the realm of intellectual property. Legally ambiguous Highlighting gaps in Indian IP law, Rahul Hingmire, managing partner at Vis Legis Law Practice, pointed out that India lacks a clear statutory framework governing personality or publicity rights, unlike countries such as the United States. For instance, in the US, music stars Beyoncé and Jay-Z had sought to trademark their daughter's name, Blue Ivy Carter, in 2012, shortly after her birth. The celebrity couple applied with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. However, a wedding planner who had been using the name, 'Blue Ivy Events', for her business opposed the move. Beyoncé eventually secured the trademark rights for Blue Ivy Carter in 2024. In India, however, there is no statute that directly governs the use of nicknames, voice, image, or fan-created identities in trade, Hingmire said. This, he added, creates ambiguity around when and how a nickname becomes a protectable asset. Phrases like 'Captain Cool' exist in a twilight space, he said. 'They're part of public expression but can also carry commercial value. Without careful regulation, granting trademarks over such terms risks monopolising language and stifling public discourse,' Hingmire said. 'It also raises concerns about limiting fan engagement or cultural usage.' Shailendra Bhandare, partner at Khaitan & Co, also stressed that for trademark registration, the mark must be distinctive and not generic. 'However, the trademark office may not always have the full context regarding the mark's strength or distinctiveness. That's why trademark law provides for post-registration cancellation proceedings,' he said. Dhoni's pursuit of the 'Captain Cool' trademark thus sits at the intersection of fan culture, intellectual property, and commercial law — a test case that could influence how India handles celebrity titles and the balance between private rights and public domain.
Pink Villa
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Pink Villa
MS Dhoni turns 44: Quiet celebration in Ranchi vs loud cheers in Vijayawada by fans
On July 7, MS Dhoni turned 44 with low-key celebrations that emphasized his preference for privacy and family over fanfare. In Ranchi, Jharkhand, he celebrated the day at the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) premises—his professional 'home'—while fans in Vijayawada staged a massive tribute. These dual celebrations were a clear indicator of the cricketer's two anchors: the ground where he began and the region that embraced him as Chennai Super Kings captain. Ranchi residence: JSCA grounds celebration Back at the JSCA complex in Ranchi, where Dhoni sharpened his skills as a young cricketer, he gathered with a handful of staff, including president Ajay Nath Shahdeo. Wearing a sleeveless black T-shirt, the former India captain cut a simple cake in the JSCA office, saying, 'Thank you, guys.' The two-time World Cup-winning captain looked relaxed as he handed out slices of cake and shared smiles with old acquaintances. The viral video captured Dhoni's understated approach: no luxury, just the team behind him on his way to captaining India to three ICC titles. Vijayawada fan tribute While Ranchi saw a quiet celebration, fans in Vijayawada lit up the streets. Per reports from Times Now and India Today, crowds gathered a day early on July 6, waving posters of Dhoni. The fans also erected two towering cutouts of the Chennai Super Kings captain, one of which portrayed him in traditional South Indian attire and sunglasses. Even after stepping away from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni's influence remains immense. His presence in the IPL 2025 season, despite not leading CSK from the outset, continues to rally fans—especially after he reassumed captaincy mid-season due to an injury to Ruturaj Gaikwad. Captain Cool's legacy beyond numbers Across formats, Dhoni's record is staggering. He scored 17,266 international runs and effected 829 dismissals over 538 matches. His 10,773 ODI runs came at an average of 50.57, a feat made more impressive by his usual middle-order position. In Tests, he played 90 matches and scored nearly 5,000 runs. As captain, he led India in 332 matches across formats, winning 178. But beyond statistics, it's his unflinching, calm, and measured words that continue to define him, even having trademarked the nickname 'Captain Cool.'
Indian Express
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
From MS Dhoni's ‘Captain Cool' to Shah Rukh Khan's ‘King Khan': Top 10 celebrities who trademarked their name, likeness
Celebrity trademarks: When MS Dhoni recently secured the trademark rights to his iconic nickname 'Captain Cool,' it wasn't just a legal win, it was a strategic brand move. For years, the nickname has captured Dhoni's composure under pressure, his calm leadership style, and his popularity both on and off the field. As of June 2025, the Indian Trademark Registry accepted his application under Class 41, which includes services related to sports training, entertainment, and education. Pending no opposition by October, the name 'Captain Cool' will be Dhoni's alone to license, market, and commercialise. Dhoni joins an expanding club of celebrities–both Indian and international–who've realised that in the age of social media, streaming, and viral merchandise, it's not enough to be famous. You have to own what makes you iconic. From catchphrases and nicknames to names of their children and even voices, here are 10 celebrities who've turned personal identity into legally protected intellectual property. Dhoni's trademark application for Captain Cool marks a milestone in Indian celebrity branding. The nickname, synonymous with his calm demeanour during high-stakes matches, has been part of public consciousness for over a decade. The trademark, filed in June 2023 and accepted in June 2025, opens doors for commercial expansion–think apparel, sports academies, and even digital ventures under the 'Captain Cool' brand. This move is also significant in protecting Dhoni's legacy in a rapidly commercialising sports ecosystem. A post shared by D'YAVOL X (@dyavol.x) Shah Rukh Khan is one of the most valuable celebrity brands in the world, and he has trademarked the initials SRK and the moniker King Khan to ensure his global recognition remains legally intact. These trademarks are managed by Red Chillies Entertainment and cover everything from entertainment services to merchandise and events. With fans across continents and a portfolio that includes films, endorsements, and OTT ventures, trademarking these identifiers helps prevent misuse while monetising his brand in every corner of the globe. Beyoncé and Jay-Z initially sought to trademark their daughter's name, Blue Ivy Carter, in 2012, shortly after her birth. They filed an application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). They did it primarily to prevent others from commercially exploiting it without their permission. They wanted to protect their daughter's name from being used on products or services without their consent. The trademark application was initially met with opposition from a wedding planner who had been using the name 'Blue Ivy Events' for her business. After a lengthy legal battle, Beyoncé ultimately won the trademark rights for Blue Ivy Carter in 2024. A post shared by Salman Khan (@beingsalmankhan) Salman Khan transformed his personal brand into a philanthropic and commercial empire through the trademarked name Being Human. Initially launched as a charitable foundation focused on education and healthcare, it soon expanded into a globally available fashion brand. The proceeds from clothing and accessories go directly toward funding social initiatives. By trademarking Being Human, Salman Khan not only secured the name legally but created a hybrid identity that blends Bollywood stardom with social responsibility. A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) Few artists understand the value of branding like Taylor Swift. In 2015, she trademarked several lyrics and phrases from her 1989 album, including 'This Sick Beat,' 'Cause We Never Go Out of Style,' and 'Nice to Meet You, Where You Been?' These phrases are now protected across a wide array of merchandise–ranging from clothing and stationery to cosmetics and mobile apps. The name for her fanbase, 'SWIFTIES,' is also trademarked, covering various services like advertising and fan club activities. Swift has trademarked the names of her cats, including Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button. She initially trademarked 'Meredith & Olivia Swift' and later expanded it to include Benjamin Button after adopting him. A post shared by Amitabh Bachchan (@amitabhbachchan) In a landmark move for Indian celebrities, Amitabh Bachchan trademarked his voice, name, image, and even signature. Known for his iconic baritone and larger-than-life screen presence, Big B's voice and image are frequently imitated or repurposed in ads and social media content. With this trademark in place, any unauthorised use–be it in deepfakes, advertisements, or mimicry–can be legally challenged. It's a critical step in the age of AI and impersonation, where even a voice can be replicated. A post shared by Kim Kardashian (@kimkardashian) Kim Kardashian, a branding powerhouse, trademarked SKKN BY KIM as part of her rebranded skincare venture. The trademark covers a broad spectrum of wellness and beauty categories, including cleansers, moisturisers, and beauty tools. Filed in 2021, the brand faced early opposition from smaller companies with similar names but eventually cleared those legal hurdles. With this trademark, Kim ensured that her skincare line would carry the weight of her global identity, while also protecting it from legal disputes and brand dilution. A post shared by Virat Kohli (@ Indian cricket star Virat Kohli trademarked One8, a brand that merges his jersey number (18) with his personal identity. Launched in partnership with Puma, One8 spans apparel, footwear, fragrances, and even a restaurant chain. The brand reflects Kohli's values around fitness and performance. Trademarking the name helped him consolidate his off-field ventures and protect his commercial rights as a public figure. Kylie Jenner trademarked Kylie and Kylie Cosmetics early in her entrepreneurial journey, despite a brief legal dispute with Australian pop singer Kylie Minogue. Jenner's trademarks now span across makeup, skincare, and fashion categories. They were instrumental in her building a billion-dollar beauty brand–Kylie Cosmetics–which she partially sold to Coty Inc. in 2019 for $600 million. Jenner's aggressive branding strategy turned her name into a globally recognised empire before she turned 25. A post shared by Dwayne Johnson (@therock) Dwayne Johnson may have left professional wrestling behind, but he still owns The Rock–both the persona and the trademark. Filed through WWE and later managed by his own enterprises, The Rock covers a range of products including energy drinks, fitness apparel, and entertainment services. Johnson also trademarked his catchphrases like 'Just Bring It' and 'Know Your Role'. These moves allowed him to transition smoothly from WWE icon to Hollywood A-lister and fitness mogul, maintaining full control over his marketable identity.
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From being Captain Cool to owning it: Dhoni applies to trademark nickname
By applying for a registration to trademark 'Captain Cool', Dhoni is looking to join the elite club of celebs who have leveraged their aliases There's a lot of chatter around M S Dhoni, who recently filed to trademark 'Captain Cool' as a possible business venture. Dhoni's legendary zen-like aura in the face of the most intense pressure on the cricketing field earned him this loving moniker which, let's admit, has a pretty high recall value. While it is unclear in what shape or form Captain Cool will sit on a shop shelf, the move has sparked a wave of interest in how celebrities transform their monikers and aliases into lucrative brands. Here's a sampler: Cristiano Ronaldo - CR7: Combining his initials and jersey number, Ronaldo under 'CR7' sells everything from underwear to hotels. A smart way to leverage Ronaldo's global football dominance and charisma LeBron James - King James: LeBron's basketball reign, embodying his court dominance and larger-than-life aura powers his trademark. From sports gear to media ventures – this is all about slam-dunk commercial force Michael Jordan - Air Jordan: 'Air Jordan' captures Jordan's gravity-defying basketball prowess, legendary stuff. His collaboration with Nike has earned a permanent slot in the pop culture hall of fame Usain Bolt - Lightning Bolt: 'Lightning Bolt' captures Bolt's legendary blazing speed and iconic victory pose, electrifying track and field journey. Bolt's trademark covers everything from sports to lifestyle
