In May 2025, the Delhi High Court heard a case where Oswaal Books and Learning Pvt. Ltd. wanted to trademark the phrase “ONE FOR ALL” for its educational books. The Court had to decide if the phrase was just a common slogan or a proper trademark.
What The Court Said
Lack of Distinctiveness: The words “ONE FOR ALL” only described the general usefulness of the books, not Oswaal as the maker.
Secondary meaning missing: Secondary meaning means that people think of the phrase as pointing only to one company. The Court said that was not proved.
Brand vs. Mark: Evidence like invoices, ads, and videos showed that people know the Oswaal Books brand, but not that they connect “ONE FOR ALL” with Oswaal as a trademark.
Just Description: The phrase was only describing the books—“useful for all”—and was not seen as a sign of origin.
The Verdict:
The Court dismissed the appeal. It ruled that “ONE FOR ALL” is descriptive and has not gained secondary meaning, so it cannot be registered as a trademark.
Court's Checklist (for businesses seeking trademark registration)
➤ Show customers link the slogan directly to your business, not just products.
➤ Highlight the slogan in marketing so people associate it with you.
➤ Avoid common phrases for stronger trademark protection.
➤ Use the slogan consistently over time to build recognition.
Case Details:
Case Name: Oswaal Books and Learnings Pvt. Ltd. v. Registrar of Trademark
Mark at Issue: ONE FOR ALL
Court & Judge: Delhi High Court, Justice Mini Pushkarna
Date: 28 May 2025
Result: Appeal dismissed—mark descriptive; no acquired distinctiveness.
Bottom Line:
A smart slogan isn’t enough. Unless the public clearly connects it to your company alone, it cannot become your trademark.
Judgment Source for Verification: https://indiankanoon.org/doc/163423158/
Delhi High Court Judgment – Oswaal Books v. Registrar of Trademark (28 May 2025)
Disclaimer:
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Legal Terminus is not responsible for any changes in laws or regulations that occur after the publication date of this article. For specific legal advice, please consult with a qualified attorney.
Regards
CS Shipra Mishra
(B. Com, LL.B, FCS, Insolvency Professional, Registered TM Agent)
