The bustling food scene in Hyderabad has been stirred by a legal controversy involving none other than Telugu cinema's Megastar Chiranjeevi. A popular restaurant named 'Chiranjeevi Dhaba' has found itself in hot water after receiving a formal legal notice for using the celebrity's name without proper authorization.
The Legal Storm Brewing
According to recent developments, Chiranjeevi's legal team has sent a stern notice to the establishment located in Hyderabad's Kukatpally area. The notice explicitly demands that the restaurant immediately cease and desist from using the actor's name and likeness for commercial purposes. This move highlights the growing importance of celebrity name rights protection in India's commercial landscape.
Restaurant Owner's Surprising Claim
In a twist to the story, the restaurant owner, Sumanth Reddy, has come forward with a surprising revelation. He claims that Chiranjeevi himself had granted verbal consent for using his name when the establishment was launched. "When I approached him, Chiranjeevi sir responded so kindly and gave his blessings," Reddy stated, expressing his shock at the legal action.
What the Legal Notice Says
The legal document served to the restaurant management outlines several key points:
- Unauthorized use of Chiranjeevi's name constitutes trademark infringement
- The establishment is capitalizing on the actor's reputation and goodwill
- Potential confusion among customers about the star's association with the business
- Demand for immediate name change and cessation of all related marketing
Chiranjeevi's Growing Brand Value
The timing of this legal action is particularly interesting given Chiranjeevi's recent career resurgence. With back-to-back successful films and his recent Padma Vibhushan award, the actor's brand value has skyrocketed. Industry experts suggest that proper brand protection has become crucial for celebrities of his stature.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
The news has sparked intense discussion on social media platforms, with fans divided in their opinions. While some support the actor's right to protect his brand, others feel sympathetic toward the restaurant owner who claims to have received the star's personal approval.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on how this celebrity naming rights battle will unfold in the coming days. The case could set an important precedent for how celebrity names are used in commercial establishments across India.
