How to Register a “Sound Mark” in India: A 2026 Step-by-Step Guide
To register a sound mark in India in 2026, the sound must be “graphically represented” via musical notations and submitted alongside an MP3 file that is under 30 seconds. The landmark January 2026 registration of the Taj Hotels “sonic sound” has confirmed that the hospitality and service sectors can now protect their audio identity as a core business asset, provided the sound is unique and directly identifies the brand to the average consumer.
The Taj Precedent and Its Impact
In our practice at DURRO IP, we highlight that sound marks are no longer just for tech giants or movie studios. The recent success of Taj Hotels (IHCL) proves that:
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Distinctiveness is King:
Simple, functional noises cannot be trademarked; the sound must evoke an “emotional memory” of the brand.
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The AI Factor:
With generative AI making it “child’s play” to replicate jingles, a formal registration is your only defense against deepfake audio and brand dilution.
Filing Requirement for 2026
- Graphical Representation: You must provide a clear score or stave showing the notes, tempo, and rhythm.
- Factual Proof: In our experience, submitting evidence of long-standing “uninterrupted use” significantly speeds up the examiner’s approval.