On May 7, 2025, Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) became the first entity to file a trademark application for the term “Operation Sindoor,” a codename associated with recent Indian military strikes in Pakistan. The application was submitted under Class 41 of the Nice Classification, which encompasses media, cultural, educational, and entertainment services. Within the same day, three additional applications for the same term were filed by other parties, all under Class 41.
The term “Operation Sindoor” gained prominence following India’s military response to a terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, predominantly Hindus. The operation targeted alleged terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistani-administered Kashmir. The term “Sindoor” refers to the red vermilion powder traditionally worn by married Hindu women, symbolizing marital status and, in this context, possibly alluding to the widows created by the attack.
Reliance’s application was filed by its film division, Jio Studios, with the intention of using the term for entertainment purposes, including the production and distribution of audio and video content. However, the move sparked widespread public and political backlash. Critics accused the conglomerate of attempting to commercialize a national tragedy. Screenshots of the trademark filing circulated on social media, leading to public outcry. Aniruddh Sharma, a spokesperson for India’s main opposition Congress party, questioned the motives behind seeking commercial gain from a national tragedy.
In response to the backlash, Reliance issued a statement on May 8, 2025, clarifying that the trademark application was filed inadvertently by a junior employee without proper authorization. The company emphasized that “Operation Sindoor” is now part of the national consciousness as an evocative symbol of Indian bravery and that it had no intention of trademarking the term. Consequently, Reliance withdrew the trademark application.
This incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding the commercialization of terms associated with national security and military operations. While Bollywood films based on military operations, such as the 2019 hit “Uri,” have been successful, the attempt to trademark “Operation Sindoor” was perceived as an overreach. The swift withdrawal of the application by Reliance underscores the importance of considering public sentiment and ethical implications in corporate decision-making.Reuters
The episode serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between creative expression and respect for national sentiments, especially in matters involving national security and collective grief.
