and get access to exclusive content
Explore Aurum kuberx Click here to explore
In a dramatic legal face-off, Macrotech Developers, helmed by Abhishek Lodha, has filed an intellectual property rights (IPR) suit in the Bombay High Court against his younger brother’s company, House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL). The dispute centers on the use of the ‘Lodha’ name, which Macrotech alleges has caused confusion among buyers and investors.
Justice Manish Pitale, acknowledging the commercial nature of the case with stakes exceeding ₹100 crore, referred it to the high-value matters bench under Justice Arif Doctor. The case is now set for a hearing on January 27.
Macrotech Developers claims that HoABL’s use of the ‘Lodha’ name in its real estate projects has led to significant confusion, harming the brand equity it has painstakingly built over four decades. A spokesperson for Macrotech highlighted that the brand was trademarked in 2010, with the aim of protecting its legacy in the competitive real estate sector.
Abhinandan Lodha, on the other hand, separated from the family business after financial challenges in 2017. In 2021, he launched his own real estate venture, focusing on plotted developments, and named it ‘House of Abhinandan Lodha.’ The company, now boasting projects in 16 locations, has achieved gross sales exceeding ₹6,500 crore with over 7,000 customers worldwide.
Macrotech alleges that HoABL’s branding creates market confusion, attributing an estimated loss of ₹5,000 crore to this overlap. They argue that allowing continued use of the Lodha name could lead to further financial damage.
Abhinandan counters this claim, emphasizing that his company operates under a registered trademark since 2021. He asserts that Macrotech is attempting to stifle the growth of his independent business.
The courtroom battle has brought together some of India’s top legal minds. Senior advocates Darius Khambata and Janak Dwarkadas represent Macrotech, while Aspi Chinoy defends HoABL.
As both sides gear up for the hearing, the outcome could set a significant precedent for brand disputes in the real estate industry.
News, Infographics, Blogs & More! Delivered to your inbox.