The Delhi High Court has restrained Cartel Bros from using the trademarks “GODFATHER” or “GODFATHER’S” in relation to whisky products during the pendency of a trademark infringement suit filed by Devans Modern Breweries Limited.
Devans had approached the court alleging that the use of the mark by Cartel Bros infringed its registered GODFATHER trademark, which the company uses for its beer portfolio. The company argued that the use of the same mark for whisky could cause consumer confusion and dilute the distinctiveness of the brand.
The latest order follows an earlier direction in which the court had asked Cartel Bros to defer the commercial launch of products under the disputed mark and refrain from issuing fresh promotional or social media communications related to it.
In its order, the Delhi High Court observed that Devans’ registrations for the GODFATHER trademark remain valid and enforceable and noted that the brand has built substantial goodwill and reputation over more than four decades. The court also observed that the mark appears to be exclusively associated with Devans and that the company has consistently invested in promoting the brand.
The court further held that beer and whisky are allied and cognate goods, noting that both are alcoholic beverages sold through common trade channels and retail outlets and are governed by a common regulatory framework.
Based on its prima facie assessment, the court restrained Cartel Bros from manufacturing, bottling, marketing, selling, offering for sale, advertising, exporting or otherwise using the marks “GODFATHER” or “GODFATHER’S” in relation to whisky products until the disposal of the suit.
The court also directed Cartel Bros to remove listings, advertisements, posts and other digital content bearing the disputed marks from websites, e-commerce platforms, mobile applications, social media platforms and other online media under its control.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 23, 2026.
