In a decisive move to protect one of India’s most recognizable culinary trademarks, the Delhi High Court has barred “Bukhara Inn” from using the name “Bukhara,” finding the imitation of ITC’s famed restaurant brand to be prima facie dishonest.
Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora passed the interim order in a suit filed by ITC Ltd and ITC Hotels, which claimed that “Bukhara Inn” was attempting to trade on the reputation of the legendary Bukhara restaurant housed at ITC Maurya, New Delhi.
The Court recalled that ITC’s Bukhara was launched in the late 1970s and has since achieved the status of a “global culinary landmark,” with revenues touching nearly ₹49 crore in the last financial year. The mark, registered since 1985, was officially declared a “well-known trademark” in 2024—granting it enhanced statutory protection.
Dismissing the defence that the disputed name derived from the proprietor’s surname “Bukhari,” the Court said there was no credible link justifying the use of ITC’s celebrated mark. The judge observed that the defendant’s adoption of the name appeared deliberate and made with full awareness of the brand’s established status.
Finding a strong case in ITC’s favour, the Court held that allowing the defendant to continue using the mark would cause irreparable harm and confusion among consumers. It therefore restrained Bukhara Inn, its officers, and agents from using “BUKHARA” or any deceptively similar variation.
The matter will return for further hearing in April 2026.
