Introduction
Trademark protection is a cornerstone of brand identity, especially in industries driven by creativity and craftsmanship. One such industry is the musical instrument sector, which falls under Trademark Class 15 as per the NICE classification system. In India, the music industry is growing with the rise of independent musicians, traditional instrument makers, and digital e-commerce platforms selling everything from harmoniums to electric guitars. But what role does trademark registration play in this space? And which Indian brands are taking it seriously?
This blog explores the importance of Trademark Class 15 in India, highlights top Indian brands that have registered under this class, and explains why protecting intellectual property in the musical instrument sector is more crucial than ever.
What is Trademark Class 15?
Trademark Class 15 covers a specific category of goods under the NICE classification system. This class primarily includes:
- Musical instruments
- Stands and cases for musical instruments
- Tuning forks
- Mechanical pianos
- Electronic musical instruments
- Conductors’ batons
- Music boxes
This class does not include:
- Recording media (Class 9)
- Software for music creation (Class 9)
- Entertainment services like music shows or concerts (Class 41)
If you manufacture, distribute, or brand any physical musical instruments, Class 15 is the right trademark class for you.
Why Trademark Class 15 Matters for Indian Musical Instrument Makers
- Brand Recognition
- With a trademark, your brand name and logo become distinguishable from competitors. This builds trust, especially in niche segments like handmade instruments.
- IP Protection
- Original instrument designs and brand names are vulnerable to copying. Trademark registration gives you the right to take legal action against counterfeiters.
- Boosts Online Sales Credibility
- E-commerce platforms require sellers to verify brand ownership. A registered trademark eases listing and provides protection from infringers.
- Export Benefits
- If you plan to export your musical instruments, a registered Indian trademark can help you register abroad via the Madrid Protocol.
- Investor and Distributor Confidence
- Partners and investors look for secured intellectual property. A registered trademark under Class 15 adds credibility to your business.
Top Indian Brands Using Trademark Class 15
Here are some standout Indian brands that have successfully registered their trademarks under Class 15:
1. Hohner Musicals
- Based In: Delhi
- Products: Harmoniums, tablas, sitars, dholaks
- Why It Matters: Known for traditional Indian instruments, Hohner’s trademark helps protect its handcrafted designs from local imitations.
2. SoundSmith India
- Based In: Mumbai
- Products: Acoustic guitars, electric guitars, ukuleles
- Why It Matters: With a modern product range and online distribution, SoundSmith leverages its Class 15 trademark to fight off cheap knockoffs.
3. Raj Musicals
- Based In: Delhi
- Products: Percussion instruments, brass instruments, and accessories
- Why It Matters: Their trademark helps ensure no other shop or online seller falsely uses their brand name.
4. Kadence
- Based In: Bangalore
- Products: Guitars, ukuleles, digital pianos, accessories
- Why It Matters: A rising brand among indie musicians, Kadence uses its trademark to distinguish itself in the digital music space.
5. Rhythm Musical Store
- Based In: Chennai
- Products: Drum sets, Indian classical instruments
- Why It Matters: Rhythm’s Class 15 trademark registration helps them protect both physical and online business from infringement.
6. Swan7
- Based In: Delhi
- Products: Acoustic and classical guitars
- Why It Matters: Swan7’s branding thrives on its distinct identity in the guitar segment, secured via its Class 15 mark.
7. Pal Music House
- Based In: Punjab
- Products: Harmoniums, tabla sets, Indian flutes
- Why It Matters: Their traditional Indian craftsmanship is protected by registering their mark in Class 15, shielding it from local duplicates.
Benefits These Brands Enjoy Through Class 15 Registration
- Legal Standing: Ability to send cease-and-desist letters and file suits against infringers
- Marketplace Protection: Quicker takedown of fake sellers on Amazon, Flipkart, and other platforms
- Customer Trust: Registered brands are seen as more professional and reliable
- Global Expansion: Easier access to international markets using the Indian registration as a base
How Startups Can Learn from These Brands
- Start Early
- Apply for trademark registration as soon as your product idea is finalized. Don’t wait until you’re famous to get copied.
- Use a Distinctive Brand Name
- Avoid generic names. The more unique your name or logo, the easier it is to secure registration.
- Hire a Professional
- Use a trademark professional or agency like VMK Professionals to avoid mistakes in filing, class selection, or objections.
- Think International
- If your goal is to go global, make sure your brand isn’t already registered in the markets you want to enter.
- Maintain Your Registration
- Renew every 10 years and use the mark continuously to keep your protection active.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Class 15 Trademark Registration
- Choosing the wrong class (e.g., Class 9 instead of Class 15)
- Filing under an already registered or similar brand name
- Incomplete descriptions of goods (e.g., just “instruments” instead of “acoustic guitars and ukuleles”)
- Not tracking application status, leading to abandoned registrations
- Ignoring international IP rights while exporting
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Trademark in Class 15 in India
- Trademark Search
- Search the IP India website for existing marks similar to yours in Class 15.
- Prepare Your Application
- Define your goods (e.g., violin bows, electric keyboards). Prepare logo and brand name assets.
- Select Class 15
- Specify the correct NICE class to ensure relevance and enforceability.
- Submit Form TM-A
- File online or via a trademark attorney. Pay INR 4,500 (for startups/individuals) or INR 9,000 (for companies).
- Examination Report
- Address any objections raised by the Trademark Office.
- Publication in Journal
- If no opposition is raised in 4 months, it proceeds to registration.
- Receive Trademark Certificate
- Valid for 10 years with renewal options.
Conclusion
India’s growing music scene—ranging from classical tabla makers to modern indie guitar brands—stands to gain significantly from trademark protection under Class 15. The brands highlighted above prove that proactive trademark registration strengthens brand identity, builds consumer trust, and prevents imitation.
If you’re a musical instrument maker or startup, securing your identity under Class 15 isn’t just a smart move—it’s a necessity in today’s competitive and digital-first world.
Need Help Registering a Trademark in Class 15?
VMK Professionals specializes in helping Indian brands register and protect their trademarks. Whether you manufacture harmoniums or electric guitars, we guide you through Class 15 registration with 100% accuracy and personalized service.
Get in touch today and start protecting your brand the right way.
