Image: BCCI is facing legal action over a robot dog whose name is patented in children's comic book / © Business Standard
When the IPL 2025 season introduced its latest entertainment innovation—a robot dog named “Champak”—fans were thrilled. The robotic companion made its debut during the Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians clash in Delhi and quickly became a crowd favourite. It walked, jumped, shook hands, made heart signs, and even interacted playfully with players like MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya. However, its rising popularity has now led the BCCI into legal trouble.
Initially nameless, the robot’s title was chosen via an online fan vote where “Champak” emerged as the winning name. But this created a conflict with Delhi Press Patra Prakashan, the publisher of the long-standing children’s magazine “Champak”. Claiming trademark infringement, the publisher filed a legal complaint in the Delhi High Court, arguing that the use of the name might mislead children who associate it with the beloved comic character.
The court has now served a notice to the BCCI demanding a response. While the robot continues to entertain, including a viral dance moment with Sunil Gavaskar during the RCB vs RR match on April 24, the name issue could force a rebranding. This unique case showcases how cricket, entertainment, and intellectual property can collide on the grand IPL stage.