Inside Basmati trademark court battle

The dispute traces back to October 2009, when Krish Commodities Limited filed six trademark applications: Wali Basmati Rice, Rouz Basmati Rice, Pilau Basmati Rice, Nawab Basmati Rice, Rajah Basmati Rice and Al-Hannan Basmati Rice.

Each application incorporated the words ‘Basmati Rice’ but expressly disclaimed exclusivity over at least the elements “Basmati” and “Rice.”