Actor-entrepreneur Deepika Padukone and her company, DPKA Universal Consumer Ventures, have found themselves at the centre of a trademark battle after Lotus Herbals Private Limited filed a lawsuit alleging brand infringement.
The dispute revolves around the use of the mark “Lotus Splash,” a face cleanser sold by Deepika’s self-care brand 82°E. Lotus Herbals claimed that the name bears similarity to its established “Lotus” trademark, potentially causing confusion among consumers in the highly competitive beauty and skincare market.
The matter escalated to the Delhi High Court, which has now issued an interim injunction prohibiting DPKA Universal Consumer Ventures from using the mark “Lotus Splash” for its facewash product.
Credits: Bar and Bench
What the Court Said
The case was heard by a Division Bench comprising Justices V Kameswar Rao and Vinod Kumar. In its order, the Bench overturned a January 25, 2024, single-judge ruling that had denied interim relief to Lotus Herbals.
According to court observations, there was a prima facie case in favour of Lotus Herbals. The Bench stated that it did not agree with the respondent’s argument that the case fell under an exception to trademark infringement. The injunction was granted under Order 39, Rules 1 and 2 of the Civil Procedure Code, effectively restraining the use of “Lotus Splash” until further proceedings.
The judges held that the mark used by 82°E was similar enough to the “Lotus” mark of Lotus Herbals to warrant interim protection. The ruling signals the judiciary’s cautious approach in cases where brand identity and consumer confusion may overlap.
The Legal Argument: Section 30(2)(a)
DPKA Universal Consumer Ventures had relied on Section 30(2)(a) of the Trade Marks Act in its defence. This provision allows the use of descriptive terms in trademarks when they indicate characteristics such as type, quality, quantity, intended use, value, or other attributes of goods and services.
The argument suggested that “Lotus Splash” could fall within a permissible descriptive category. However, the Division Bench disagreed with the earlier interpretation and concluded that the defence did not sufficiently protect the use of the mark in this instance.
For brands operating in the beauty and personal care sector—where floral and botanical references are common—the ruling underscores the importance of careful trademark clearance and legal due diligence.
82°E: Deepika’s Entrepreneurial Vision
Launched in 2022, 82°E marked Deepika Padukone’s formal entry into full-fledged entrepreneurship. The name, pronounced “eighty-two east,” references the longitudinal meridian that determines India’s standard time—symbolising the brand’s Indian roots and global aspirations.
82°E positions itself as a science-backed, clinically tested self-care brand aimed at promoting holistic well-being. Deepika, who is also the founder of The Live Love Laugh Foundation, has consistently advocated for mental health awareness and balanced living. Through 82°E, she sought to extend that philosophy into skincare, combining ingredients rooted in nature with modern dermatological research.
The “Lotus Splash” cleanser was marketed as part of the brand’s curated skincare lineup, designed for glowing, healthy skin. The current injunction, however, temporarily halts its use under that name, raising questions about potential rebranding or legal appeals.
Celebrity Brands Under Legal Scrutiny
The case also highlights the growing intersection of celebrity entrepreneurship and intellectual property law. As more public figures venture into consumer businesses, trademark disputes are becoming increasingly common.
Established brands like Lotus Herbals, which have built equity over decades, are vigilant about protecting their marks. For newer entrants like 82°E, navigating trademark landscapes becomes crucial to avoid costly litigation and reputational setbacks.
While this is only an interim order and the final outcome remains pending, the ruling has already sparked conversation across the beauty and legal communities.
Credits: Moneycontrol
What’s Next?
As the legal proceedings continue, both companies are likely to prepare for a more detailed hearing on the merits of the case. For now, 82°E must refrain from using the “Lotus Splash” mark.
Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone remains active on multiple fronts. On the film side, she is gearing up for the much-anticipated movie King, co-starring Shah Rukh Khan and Abhishek Bachchan, slated for release in Christmas 2026.
For 82°E, the coming months may prove pivotal—not just legally, but strategically. Whether through rebranding, settlement, or appeal, the outcome will be closely watched by India’s fast-evolving beauty industry.
