 |
| 1 |
Cover Story
RK Dewan & Co Rankings and Recognitions |
| 2 |
RKD News
An update on Patent Grants 3rd National Patent Drafting Competition Leadership Legacy |
| 3 |
Spotlight
The Triumph of Perception: Unveiling the Power of Branding in Consumer Markets. |
| 4 |
Analysis
IP Updates |
| 5 |
Snips and Specs
IPR Quiz From India to the World Stories Behind the Brand: Budhani Brother Waferwala |
| 6 |
R K Decodes
Decoding Delicious Delicacies - “Masala Chai” |
| 7 |
Today’s Chuckles |
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R K Dewan & Co.
Rankings &
Recognitions |
| The Legal 500 2024 Rankings |
Our commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of leadership in intellectual property law has culminated in our firm being distinguished as a Tier 1 firm in both Intellectual Property and Patents & Trademarks Attorney categories.
Further, Dr. Mohan Dewan, our Principal, has been recognized as a leading individual, for his unparalleled contribution. His insights, expertise, and leadership have been instrumental in guiding our firm to the forefront of intellectual property law. |
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Visit us at www.rkdewan.com | Write to us at niti_dewan@rkdewanmail.com | Follow Us on  |
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In parallel, Dr Niti Dewan, the Head of Patents & Business Development, has been acknowledged as a leading individual. Her recognition is a mirror to her exceptional knowledge, strategic acumen, and dedication to advancing the patents landscape.
The accolades extend across our firm, with a remarkable total of 12 associates from various offices being recognized by Legal 500 in several categories.
These recognitions by The Legal 500 (Legalease) are a source ofimmense pride and serve as a catalyst for our continued efforts toinnovate and lead in the intellectual property domain.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients, whose trust andpartnership have been integral to our achievements.
WTR 1000 2024 Rankings
We are elated to share that R K Dewan & Co. has achieved Gold rankings
in Enforcement and Litigation, as well as Prosecution and Strategy in the
WTR 1000 2024.
Dr. Mohan Dewan, has been recognised Recommended Individual in
Litigation & Enforcement with a Gold ranking. Sir has over five decades of
experience, continues to be a legal luminary representing clients across
India.
Noteworthy mentions for Dr. Niti Dewan and Adv. NK Bhardwaj for their
Silver rankings, showcasing expertise in Prosecution & Strategy and
Litigation & Enforcement respectively.
Further, Adv. Disha Dewan has secured a Bronze ranking in Prosecution
& Strategy. |
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FEBRUARY 2024 |
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| AN UPDATE ON PATENT GRANTS |
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3RD NATIONAL PATENT DRAFTING
COMPETITION 2024NEWSNET |
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| In collaboration with the Technolawgy Society, School of Law, UPES, R K Dewan & Co. presents “VIDHIUTSAV”, the annual law fest of the School of Law and extends a cordial invitation to the 3rd National Patent Drafting Competition in Hybrid mode. |
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This competition aims to nurture the essential skill of patent drafting, ensuring the safeguarding of innovation and fostering technological development. The competition offers a platform for participants to showcase their expertise in patent drafting.
Event Details:
Mode: Hybrid
Event Dates: April 6, 2024, to April 7, 2024
Registrations start: January 18, 2024
Last Day for Registration: February 20, 2024
Looking forward to your positive participation and esteemed presence.
For any queries, contact:
Mahima Kaur 7307342809, Krishnakant Dwivedi 7388556796 |
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| Leadership Legacy |
Dr. Mohan Dewan Enlightens at ICAI's 3rd Batch Certificate Course on IPR Laws
Recently, Dr. Mohan Dewan was invited to deliver a session at the 3rd Batch of Certificate Course on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) laws organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and the Committee on Commercial Laws, Economic Advisory & NPO Cooperative of ICAI on February 2 and 9th, 2024.
In his online session on Feb 2, Dewan addressed the participants by delivering a session on the “Intellectual Property Rights - Introduction, Definition, Scope, Historical Background & Legal Framework”. On Feb 9, Dewan elucidated the participants by delivering a session “Identifying and Recognizing IP & Development of Self IPR.” |
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Republic Day Celebrations by the Government of India
Recently the Government of India commemorated 75 years of our Republic and as per the tradition, a Republic Day Parade was conducted at Kartavya Path, New Delhi in the presence of esteemed national and international dignitaries. Dr. Mohan Dewan was invited to attend the Republic Day Parade as a Guest of the Government on the basis of hi contribution to the field of IPR. |
Emerson India IP conference - 2024, Pune on 23rd January 2024
Dr. Mohan Dewan and Dr. Niti Dewan were invited to attend the conference which focussed on ‘initiation and sustaining innovation activities at India BUs’. In the segment of Interaction with external IP Attorney - Dewan elucidated the attendees in his session on Enforcing IPR Process in India and covered pointers like IPR Infringement in India, collecting evidences, filing complaint, IP litigation process, risks in implementing litigation processes. |
Dr. Niti Dewan Speaks on IPR in Defence Procurements at NLSIU's 4th Certificate Course
4th certificate course on "Procurement Management and Allied Laws" for the officers of Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) by National Law School of India University (NLSIU) on February 1, 2024 at the National Academy of Defence Financial Management (NADFM), Pune – Dr. Niti Dewan was invited as a guest of honour to deliver a session on “Intellectual Property Rights in Defence Procurements.” |
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SVLSA (Sri Venkateswara Law Students Association), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
Having a career spanning over 50 years in the field of Intellectual Property Rights, and expertise as a practicing advocate and jurist, Mohan Dewan was invited as a distinguished speaker to conduct an online webinar on 26th February 2024. Dewan addressed the participants on “Intellectual Property Rights and its importance in various spheres” giving insights into patent specification drafting, anti-counterfeiting strategies, IPvaluation, and technology transfers. |
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| The Triumph of Perception: Unveiling the Power of Branding in Consumer Markets |
| In the vast landscape of consumer markets, the success of a product isn't solely reliant on its inherent quality. Rather, it's the perception of that quality that often shapes consumer behavior. The story of 'Chateau Colombier,' a seemingly ordinary and inexpensive wine rebranded into a gold medal-winning product, underscores the immense power of branding and perception in influencing consumer choices. |
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| The Tale of 'Chateau Colombier' is a classic example of this |
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Eric Boschman, a renowned sommelier, and the team at 'On n’est pas des pigeons' embarked on a daring experiment. They selected the worst quality supermarket wine-named ‘Delhaize' priced at €2.50, transformed it into 'Chateau Colombier,' and adorned it with an enticing label and a fabricated story of origin that it has been made with grapes of the Côtes de Sambre and Meuse (Wallonia) varieties. This wine, originally far from extraordinary, was strategically packaged and marketed as a premium product.
Their concocted narrative and the aesthetic makeover of the bottle set the stage for the product's perceived quality to soar. Thereafter, Boschman promoted the wine on social media a few days prior to the competition, labelling it as "exceptional." It is well known that the opinions of well-known sommeliers have a ripple effect on their colleagues in the industry. |
This intriguing experiment entered the wine into a prestigious competition Gilbert & Gaillard International Wine Competition, where it defied its actual characteristics to secure the gold medal and praise from judges. The judges' feedback, embellishing the wine with attributes it did not possess, highlighted the subjective nature of perceived quality.
The judges quoted that wine is “Bright garnet red colour. Shy nose that combines stone fruits, currants, discreet oak. Smooth, nervous and rich palate with young and clean aromas that promise a pleasant complexity. Evolution on fine spices and a touch of soot. Very interesting“.
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Perceived Quality: Perception
Reigns Supreme
Perceived quality is the lens
through which consumers view a
product's attributes, often eclipsing
its tangible characteristics. It
hinges on the consumer's
subjective experiences, beliefs, and
social influences. In the case of
'Chateau Colombier,' the premium
branding and association with a
respected sommelier drastically
altered the perceived value of the
wine, demonstrating how
perception can trump reality in
consumer decision-making.
Divergence of Perceived vs.
Actual Quality
Actual quality refers to the genuine
characteristics and attributes of a
product. However, perceived
quality deviates from this reality,
driven by subjective interpretations
and external influences. The
discrepancy between the two is
vividly showcased in the 'Chateau
Colombier' experiment, where the
product's actual low quality was
overshadowed by the fabricated
narrative and strategic branding,
resulting in a perceived value far
greater than its reality. |
The Bandwagon Bias: Influence
of Social Validation (FOMO)
Enter the Bandwagon Bias, a
cognitive shortcut deeply rooted in
human psychology. This bias
compels individuals to align with
popular beliefs or trends without
critical evaluation. Boschman's
endorsement and the wine's
recognition in a prestigious
competition fueled the
bandwagon effect. Consumers,
influenced by the perceived
popularity and acclaim, followed
suit, embracing the product based
on its newfound reputation rather
than its inherent quality.
The Market Implications
This captivating experiment
underscores the pivotal role of
branding and perception in
consumer markets. It accentuates
the ability of strategic branding to
reshape consumer perceptions
and drive sales, despite the actual
quality of the product. It serves as a
testament to the profound impact
of narrative, image, and social
validation on consumer behavior. |
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Applicability of the Giffen’s paradox and Veblen’s Law
In market economics, where supply and demand waltz hand-in-hand,
exceptions like the Giffen’s paradox and Veblen’s Law introduce intriguing
twists. Take the case of Boschman's supermarket wine. Normally
according to the relation between supply, demand and prices, higher
prices drive down demand, a principle enshrined in the law of demand.
But here, exclusivity trumped affordability. By associating the wine with a
respected sommelier and premium packaging, Boschman transformed it
from a mundane supermarket option into a symbol of discerning taste.
This is where Veblen’s Law takes center stage. It posits that for certain
goods, higher prices actually increase their desirability. Why? Because
exclusivity becomes intertwined with value. Owning an expensive, "Veblen
good" sends a silent message about social status and discerning taste. The
higher the price, the more exclusive the club, and the stronger the allure.
Boschman's gambit exemplifies this perfectly. By elevating the perceived
quality of his wine through branding and association, he created a
"Veblen’s good" on the supermarket aisle. The paradox doesn't stop there.
Enter the Giffen’s paradox, which states that for some essential, inferior
goods, price increases can also lead to higher demand. This happens
because the price hike outpaces income adjustments, forcing consumers
to substitute more expensive options for even cheaper but less preferred
ones.
So, while Boschman's wine isn't a traditional Giffen good, its price
manipulation taps into the same psychological principle. By artificially
inflating its perceived value, he created a situation where, counter
intuitively, a higher price for a relatively inferior product led to increased
demand. |
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This interplay between perception, branding, and economic principles
reveals the fascinating complexities of consumer behavior. It reminds us
that sometimes, price is not just a number on a tag, but a carefully crafted
story that can reshape desire and redefine value.
Conclusion
The 'Chateau Colombier' saga unravels the complex interplay between
actual quality, perceived quality, and the Bandwagon Bias. It illuminates
the art of crafting a compelling brand image to wield significant influence
in consumer decision-making, illustrating that in the realm of consumer
markets, perception often reigns supreme. |
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| IP Updates |
Presence/lack of novelty or originality of a design has to be
ascertained at the time of registration - [Casio Keisanki Kabushiki
Kaisha D/B/A Casio Computer Co. Ltd. V. Riddhi Siddhi Retail Venture,
CS (COMM) 537/2022]
Casio, a renowned Japanese company, initiated legal proceedings
alleging infringement of design of its musical keyboard by the defendant.
The plaintiff contended that the defendant has adopted a nearly identical
design for its musical keyboard, which is an obvious imitation of the
plaintiff’s design. The defendant argued that the plaintiff’s design
registration is liable to be cancelled as it suffers from lack of novelty (since
it is similar to the design of several other keyboards readily available in the
market and accessible on various third-party websites) thereby rendering
Casio's design registration redundant. |
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While addressing the issue of design cancellation, while the Court
acknowledged that the absence of novelty and originality could serve as a
legitimate defense (in a suit for design infringement), the lack of novelty
or originality has to be ascertained on the date when the design was
granted registration. In other words, the Court observed that if a design,
when granted registration, does not suffer from lack of novelty or
originality, it cannot be invalidated solely because multiple producers
decide to copy the said design subsequent to the grant of registration.
The Court also pointed out that the defendant failed to adduce any valid
evidence substantiating their claims of prior publication and lack of
novelty in the plaintiff's keyboard design.
Based on the aforementioned reasoning, the Court ruled in favor of Casio,
rejecting the defendant’s arguments and upholding the validity of its
design registration. |
Mere inference to show the competitor's product in bad light amounts
to disparagement. - [Hindustan Unilever Limited vs. Reckitt Benckiser
(India) Private Limited, FAO (OS)(COMM) 157/2021]
In a case involving comparative advertising for toilet cleaners, the Division
Bench of the Hon’ble Delhi High Court observed that it is not necessary to
clearly mention the competitor's product and that mere inferences drawn
from the advertiser’s depiction of a competitor’s brand, its products, or
packaging can be sufficient grounds for a disparagement claim.
Furthermore, the Court clarified the distinction between acceptable
“puffery” and actionable disparagement in comparative advertising. The
Court observed that any comparative statement which claims that the
competing product is inferior, and advertiser’s product is better or
superior, is not puffery and in light of inference to the competing product,
such statement would amount to disparagement. |
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Application under Rule 124 of the Trade Marks Rules, 2017 has to be
mandatorily filed for inclusion of a mark in the list of well-known
trademarks.- [Tata Sia Airlines Limited v. Union of India,
2023:DHC:3659]
The Hon’ble Delhi High Court while dismissing a writ petition filed by Tata
SIA Airlines Limited (“petitioner”) held that that even after declaration of a
mark as “well-known” by judicial bodies, the proprietor of such mark
would be required to file a request under Rule 124 of the Trade Marks
Rules, 2017 (“Rules”) for inclusion of the mark in the list of well-known
trademarks maintained by the Trade Marks Registry. In this particular
case, the petition was filed seeking the issuance of a writ of mandamus
directing the Registrar of Trade Marks (“Registrar”) to include the mark
VISTARA in the list of well-known trademarks, by virtue of Section 11(8) of
the Trade Marks Act, 2000 (“Act”).
The Hon’ble Court observed that the formal procedure of publication and
inclusion of the mark envisaged under Rule 124 of the TM Rules cannot be
dispensed with. Furthermore, the Court deliberated that it was beyond its
purview to engage in evaluating the justifiability of the prescribed fee of
INR 1,00,000, concerning the quantum of work expected to be undertaken
by the Registrar. |
Public Notice from the Office of Controller General of Patents, Designs
& Trade Marks dated 29.01.2024
The Office of CGPDTM proposed to hold a physical meeting on 01.02.2024
(Thursday) at 2:00 - 4:00 PM in the O/o CGPDTM, Mumbai with the
Stakeholders and IP Practitioners to listen to their grievances of common
concerns or general difficulties being faced by them, if any, with respect to
processing of Trade Mark applications and TMR portal. |
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Public Notice from the Office of Controller General of Patents, Designs
& Trade Marks dated 01.02.2024
The Office of CGPDTM has informed IP Practitioners, stakeholders and
general public that the time restrictions put earlier on the TM Public
Search and E‐Register vide Public Notices dated 13th and 25th Sept., 2023
have been removed and the same shall now be available 24x7 without any
time restrictions w.e.f. 01/02/2024.
In case any issues are still being faced in this regard; concerns are to be
sent on tmr‐helpdesk@nic.in who will address the same. |
CGPDTM Launches Open House Helpdesk Portal for Streamlined IP
Queries and Grievances
The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks
(CGPDTM) has launched the Open House Helpdesk Portal, marking a
significant step towards enhanced stakeholder engagement and service
delivery. This single platform streamlines communication and aims to
provide applicants and stakeholders with swift and effective resolution for
queries and grievances related to all six key intellectual property (IP) areas:
patents, designs, trademarks, geographical indications, copyrights, and
semiconductor integrated circuit layout-designs (SICLDs).
Key Features:
- Seamless Registration: Applicants and stakeholders can register
seamlessly using their email addresses. Existing IP application holders
can leverage the email ID associated with their application for
streamlined registration.
- Ticketing System and Notifications: Every registered grievance
generates a unique ticket, enabling clear tracking and
communication. Real-time notifications ensure users stay informed
about progress and responses.
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- Empowering Issue Resolution: Users have the autonomy to close
tickets once their concerns are satisfactorily addressed, fostering selfpaced
resolution and control over the process.
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Aligning with National Goals:
This initiative aligns with the Government of India's commitment to
fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. By offering a dedicated
platform for clear and efficient communication, the CGPDTM aims to
create a collaborative IP ecosystem where stakeholders can readily seek
guidance and address concerns seamlessly.
For more information and to access the Open House Helpdesk Portal,
please visit: https://iprsearch.ipindia.gov.in/openhousehelpdesk |
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A. Which of the following is a
benefit of patenting an invention? - Guaranteed commercial
success
- Monopoly rights indefinitely
- Protection against all types of competition
- Exclusive rights to make, use, and sell the invention for a limited time.
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B. In India, which government agency is responsible for Copyright registration?
- Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB)
- Ministry of Commerce and Industry
- Copyright Board of India
- The Registrar of Copyrights
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C. Which of the following is true
regarding the Copyright symbol
(©) in India?- It is mandatory to include the
Copyright symbol for
Copyright protection.
- It is optional but recommended to use the Copyright symbol for Copyright protection.
- The Copyright symbol is not recognized in India.
- The Copyright symbol is required only for foreign works
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D. Which of the following is a characteristic of intellectual
property rights (IPR)?
- They are tangible assets
- They have no legal recognition
- They are intangible and legally recognized exclusive rights
- They are not subject to territorial limitations
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(Answers at the end of the
Newsletter) |
| From India to the World: Shampoo |
Ancient India has made significant contributions to the world in
various fields, including mathematics, science, philosophy, and
spirituality. Many of these contributions have had a profound
impact on the world. For example, the concepts of zero and the
decimal system, which were developed in ancient India, are
now used in mathematics and accounting around the world.
The practice of yoga, which originated in ancient India, has
become a popular form of exercise and stress relief in the
Western world. |
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| While concepts of Zero, Yoga
and Ayurveda are perhaps
better known contributions
from India, there are some
lesser known contributions
from India that have gained
global recognition. In this
series of articles, we will be
telling you about these lesser
known contributions of India
to the world. |
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Did you know that, Shampoo, a ubiquitous hair care product used for
cleaning and maintaining healthy hair, has a fascinating history that
traces its roots back to ancient India?
The practice of using shampoo dates back to 1500 AD when a concoction
of boiled reetha (soap berries), amla (gooseberry), hibiscus, shikakai
(Acacia) and other hair friendly herbs, was made and used on the scalp
to healthify and cleanse the tresses during the Indus Valley Civilization.
Many ancient queens had elaborate hair-care sessions where apart from
this herbal concoctions, they also used hair packs, hair oil, hair perfume
and even applied vapours to promote their scalp health.
The Origin of the Term "Shampoo"
The word "shampoo" also has its origins in India around 1762. It
is derived from the Hindi-language word "चाँ पो " (champo), which
itself finds its roots in the Sanskrit word "chapyathi," meaning
'to press, massage, or soothe.' The practice of head and body
massage, known as "champi," became a regular indulgence
during daily baths for early colonial traders in India. |
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Travel to the west:
The credit for introducing
shampoo to the world goes to
Sake Dean Mahomed, an Indian
traveller, surgeon, and
entrepreneur born in 1759 in
Patna. Mahomed, who grew up
learning the techniques of
making herbal potions, also
experimented with the art of
giving people a champi. |
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| In 1814, Mahomed, with his Irish wife Jane Daly and children moved to
England. It was in Brighton where he opened the first commercial
"shampooing" vapour masseur bath, which he called ‘Mahomed’s Baths’,
where he offered head massage treatments to his patrons. |
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treatment in a local
newspaper as "The
Indian Medicated
Vapour Bath (as a
type of Turkish bath),
and a cure to many
ailments; particularly
rheumatic and
paralytic, gout, stiff
joints, old sprains,
lame legs, aches and
pains in the joints". |
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| This advertisement featured testimonies from his patients, and the details
of the treatment made him so famous that he was appointed as King
George IV’s and King William IV’s personal ‘shampoo surgeon’. |
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Hospitals started referring patients to him owing to his popularity, earning
him the moniker “Dr Brighton” all over England. He further went on to
publish a book called ‘Shampooing, or benefits resulting from the use of
Indian Medicated Vapour Bath’.
The Modernization of Shampoo: Liquid Formulation and Mass
Production
The transition of shampoo from traditional herbal concoctions to a liquid
form can be attributed to Josef Wilhelm Rausch, a German perfumer and
hair-stylist, who developed the first liquid hair washing soap called
"Champooing" in Emmishofen, Switzerland, in 1900. The mass production
of liquid shampoo was improved by German inventor Hans Schwarzkopf
in 1927, whose name later became synonymous with a popular shampoo
brand in Europe.
Many patents have been filed over the years for various components and
improvements of shampoo formulas, making it difficult to pinpoint one
specific invention. Upon conducting a search for "hair shampoo" in the US
Patent and Trademark Office database reveals patents as early as 1903,
with different inventors and companies listed. For example, US Patent
700,079 granted in 1902 mentions a "Hair-Treating Compound" containing
soap and other ingredients.
Therefore, pinpointing a single "owner" of the "shampoo" invention
wouldn't be accurate, as various individuals and companies contributed to
its evolution through patents and improvements. Early "shampoo" patents focused more on specific ingredients or aspects rather than the
entire concept. Modern understanding of shampoo as a distinct product
with specific properties emerged later. |
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The Sachet Revolution in India
The introduction of shampoo in sachets, a convenient and cost-effective
packaging format, revolutionized the shampoo market in India in the late
1970s and early 1980s. Two contenders vie for the credit of the first
shampoo sachet introduction: |
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- Chik Shampoo (1978): Chinni
Krishnan, an agriculturist and
entrepreneur, started
experimenting with sachet
packaging, including talcum
powder and shampoo in sachet
priced at only Re 1. He sold
sachets containing hair oil,
honey, and shampoo in and
around Cuddalore. Although
lacking extensive marketing
success, Krishnan laid the
groundwork for future
developments.
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- Velvette Shampoo (1983): C. K.
Rajkumar, inspired by Krishnan's
concept, launched Velvette
Shampoo in sachets for an
affordable price of Rs. 2.
Rajkumar's effective marketing
strategy propelled Velvette to
mainstream success, making it a
pivotal player in popularizing the
shampoo-in-sachet format.
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While Chinni Krishnan may have been the initial innovator, C.K.
Rajkumar's Velvette, launched in 1983, significantly impacted the market
and brought the shampoo-in-sachet format into mainstream popularity.
The journey of shampoo from ancient herbal concoctions to modern
liquid formulations and innovative packaging formats is a testament to its
dynamic evolution. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions, shampoo has
become an integral part of global hair care practices. The contributions of
individuals like Sake Dean Mahomed, Josef Wilhelm Rausch, and
innovators in India, such as Chinni Krishnan and C.K. Rajkumar, have
shaped the diverse and ever-expanding world of shampoo, making it an
essential and continually evolving aspect of personal care. |
| Stories Behind the Brand: Budhani
Brothers Waferwala |
| Brands are more than just a name or a logo; they embody a story
and a legacy that has been built over time. Behind every brand,
there is a rich history and a unique set of circumstances that
have shaped its identity and contributed to its success. These
background stories have become an integral part of the brand,
and they serve as an essential tool for building brand loyalty and
connecting with customers. There are various brands that you
think you know about, but do you really know them? In this
series of articles, we will be telling you unknown stories behind
the known brands. |
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“Budhani Wafers” Pune’s own wafer brand which has been
in existence way before the
advent of global snack
franchises in India. Known for
its famous Parsi-style potato
Sali (deep-fried potato straws)
and Pune’s savoury specialty
“chiwda” the brand offers a
wide variety of wafers such as
think potato, masala, banana,
cheese, tomato and
cornflakes. |
For over 67 years, Budhani Wafers have been serving fresh potato chips
every day. One can easily find the shop situated on MG road by simply
closing their eyes and following the fragrance of hot & fresh wafers, since
the entire street evidences the aroma of the same.
The story of Budhani wafers dates back to the year 1947, with the tragic
death of Budhani brother’s parents. The elder brother Mr. Madhavji
Budhani left his hometown Bhuj. At a very young age he travelled to
Pune to support the basic necessities of his two siblings. Initially he
worked in his brother-in-law’s dry fruit and wafer shop; eight years down
the line when the shop closed Mr. Budhani decided to venture out on his
own.
With a minimum capital of Rs 110, Mr. Budhani rented out a 100-squarefeet
room on MG Road. The area was serving as a shop as well as the
residence of Mr. Budhani. On August 30, 1955 with a small stove, frying
pan, hand peeler and a hand full of potatoes, Mr. Budhani started his
brand. Later as the business picked up he called his younger siblings to
join the shop and support him. |
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| At the cost of just 2 annas per
packet, his brothers Motilal and
Mangaldas Budhani used to take
turns to fry the wafers and sell the
packets on cycle all day around the
city. In the year 1964, the Budhani
brothers started “Budhani
Brothers Royal Crisp delight” their
first window shop located on MG
road. With a view to expand the
business Budhani wafers upgraded
to large coal fryer and an iron
kadhai (cooking pot) and eventually
to gas fryer in the year 1970. Soon
after that various new flavors of
wafers and mixtures were
introduced, which were packed
hygienically in polythene bags.
Eventually, the name changed and
they came to be known as
“Budhani Brothers Waferwala”. |
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| Budhani Brothers Waferwala became the first wafer company in
the country to have a stainless steel and heat-proof fryer. They
soon launched foil packaging and increased the shelf life of their
wafers from one month to four months. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
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| Currently Budhani Wafers are not just confined as a wafer making
brand but they now have a wide range of products such as Sweets,
potato mixers, Cookies, Dry Fruits, Chocolates, Pickles, Vegan friendly,
gluten friendly, jain and upvas products. Pune’s beloved Budhani’s
wafers are available in almost all the grocery shops in the city. Famous
for their crunchiness and low oil content, Budhani's wafers are set to
expanding in other countries like New Zealand, Singapore, and Dubai. |
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| Decoding Delicious Delicacies -
Masala Chai |
When it comes to food, the name of a dish holds meaning beyond just
identification. The name of a dish can give insight into the history behind
it, the ingredients used, or even the cultural significance it holds. In this
series of blogs, we will explore the history behind famous Indian dishes.
Masala chai is a soothing beverage that is timeless and comfortable in the
midst of India's everyday activities. This traditional Indian drink, referred to
as chai with great affection, is an integral part of daily life.
Masala tea has endured the test of time, providing a soothing taste that
appeal to people of all ages, from traditional medicinal elixirs to the busy
chai booths on every corner. The fascinating world of masala brings
together culture, history, and the ideal balance of spices to create a warm,
fragrant cup! |
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Historical Origins of Tea in India
Investigating the historical origins of
tea in India is necessary to fully
understand the tale of masala chai.
In the first millennium BCE, tea was
used as a medicinal herb in China. It
was also used as a sacrifice for
ceremonies around 221 BCE. The use
of tea as a beverage for pleasure
dates back to the Tang dynasty
around 618-907 CE. In the early 1600
the Dutch traders introduced the
word to tea when they began
exporting the same from China to
various parts of Europe.
Some may find it interesting to
note that in the year 1662, when
King Charles II married the
Portuguese princess Catherine of
Braganza, her dowry included a
chest of tea. Catherine,
accustomed to tea from the
Portuguese court, had her first sip
in England in May 1662, marking a
significant moment in the history
of tea in Britain.
In the 18th century, the Dutch firm
J.J. Voute & Sons exploited the
English East India Company's
inability to supply enough tea to
Britain's thriving elite and coffee
houses. |
Despite smuggling around eight
million pounds of tea annually,
Dutch tea earned a reputation for
poor quality. Meanwhile, the
English East India Company
strengthened commercial ties
with China, and Bombay became
a crucial hub for British India's
commerce.
In 1780, Robert Kyd initiated tea
cultivation in India using seeds
from China, but it was Robert
Bruce who discovered wild tea
plants thriving in the Upper
Brahmaputra Valley. By May 1823,
the first Indian tea from Assam
reached England for public sale.
Interestingly, when the
Chinese saplings were
brought to India to grow tea;
the native tea plants thrived
in the Assam climate, while
Chinese seedlings struggled.
This fostered the sowing of
native tea bush seedlings,
leading to the first
manufactured tea from
Assam reaching London in
1838. |
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This success spurred the creation
of the 'Bengal Tea Association' in
Calcutta and the first joint stock
Tea Company, the 'Assam
Company' in London. Encouraged
by this success, tea cultivation
expanded to the Himalayan
foothills and other regions of India,
with 78 plantations established by
1863 in Kumaon, Dehra Dun,
Garhwal, Kangra Valley, and Kulu.
Now tea is a staple drink at every
household in the country.
Moreover, India ranks second in
the production of tea globally.
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Recipe and Recognition
You will need water, milk green
cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks,
cloves, black peppercorns, and
ginger to prepare a cup of tea.
Crush the green cardamom pods,
cinnamon sticks, cloves and black
peppercorns. You can also use
pre-ground spices if whole spices
are not available. In a saucepan,
bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add the crushed spices to the
boiling water. Peel and grate fresh
ginger and add it to the boiling
water and spices. Allow the
mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes
to infuse the flavours. Add the
loose black tea leaves to the
simmering water and spices. Let it
simmer for an additional 2-3
minutes and pour in the milk.
Adjust the ratio of water to milk
based on your preference. Allow
the Chai to simmer for 5-7
minutes, ensuring it doesn't boil
over. Add sugar to taste. Once the
chai has simmered to your liking,
strain the mixture to remove the
tea leaves and spices and Enjoy! |
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The Indian tea market is projected
to generate US $14.4 billion in
revenue by 2023–2024, with an
anticipated growth rate of 5.99%.
Chai and Intellectual Property
Rights
Due to its rich cultural history and
widespread appeal, masala chai
has drawn attention for its flavour
as well as the legal issues related
to its production, branding, and
protection.
Copyrights
Original literary or artistic work is
protected by copyright law;
Innovative recipes may be
protected as literary work under
the Copyrights Act, 1957.
Promotional materials, marketing
content or artistic representations
connected to a brand may be
protected by copyright. For
example, a business may be able
to protect the content of its
website, its advertising, or its
package designs.
Geographical indications
Geographical indication is
important for products that have a
strong cultural or traditional
connection to a particular area.
Darjeeling tea, |
renowned for its unique flavour
and excellence, has been accorded
the GI Status in the year 2004.
Similarly, GI regulations might
identify and safeguard a certain
masala chai blend associated with
a region.
Patents
The world of tea has seen
continuous evolution, not only in
traditional brewing methods but
also in the development of
patented formulations that aim to
enhance the tea-drinking
experience. Two distinct inventions
showcase the diverse range of
innovations in the realm of teabased
beverages.
a. Patented Tea-Based Turbid
Beverages:
One patented invention focuses on
tea-based turbid beverages with a
dispersed oil phase, aiming to
combine emulsification stability
with a creamy mouth feel. The
formulation includes dry tea
ingredients, sugars, oils,
gelatinized starch, and plant
proteins from legumes or cereals.
The beverage can be in a ready-todrink
liquid form or a
reconstitutable powder, providing
consumers with a convenient and
versatile tea-drinking experience. |
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MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
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b. Ginkgo Milk Tea with Herbal
Masala:
Another inventive approach comes from an individual who recognized the
desire for a convenient yet uniquely flavoured cup of tea. This patent
involves a special mix herbal masala that adds an extra layer of complexity
to the tea-drinking ritual. The inventor combines various spices, including
llaichi, dalchini, jaifal, black miri, lawang, kawat tree leaf, and Gunj leaf,
grinding them to create a distinctive herbal masala. |
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In conclusion, masala chai
stands as a timeless icon
in Indian culture, blending
rich history, diverse
flavours, and legal
nuances. Masala chai has
gained popularity globally,
particularly in the Western
world, where it is often
known as Masala tea or
Chai tea. |
| Its roots in Ayurveda traditions and the British-led tea revolution have
shaped it into a globally recognized beverage, celebrated for its immuneboosting
properties and diverse taste. Originating from traditional
therapeutic methods and perfected over the ages, masala chai has
evolved into a symbol of everyday comfort and cultural identity. Today,
masala chai stands as one of the world's best non-alcoholic beverages,
capturing the essence of diverse traditions and flavours |
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| - PROVIDED BY PHILIP FURGANG. |
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FEBRUARY 2024 |
| NewsNet is a monthly compilation of articles and updates by R K Dewan & Co. This
publication is intended to be circulated for informational purposes only. The
publication in no way constitutes legal advice/opinion being provided by R K Dewan& Co. to its readers or the public at large. R K Dewan & Co. encourages readers to seek
professional legal advice before acting upon the contents provided herein. The firm
shall not be responsible for any liability or loss that may be attributed to the contents
of this publication. This publication is the property of R K Dewan & Co., and the same
may not be circulated, distributed, reproduced, or otherwise used by anyone without
the prior express permission of its creators. |
| Quiz Answers: A-4; B-4; C-2; D-2 |
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