If there’s one name in Indian cricket that screams cool-headed brilliance, it’s Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Known as “Captain Cool” for his calm-under-pressure leadership, Dhoni has been a household name for fans worldwide. From his iconic helicopter shot to leading India to three ICC titles, he’s a legend. But here’s the latest scoop: on June 16, 2025, the Trademark Registry of India accepted Dhoni’s application to trademark “Captain Cool.” Yes, you read that right—our Thala is turning his nickname into an official brand! Let’s break down this exciting move, why it matters, and what it means for Dhoni’s legacy.
How “Captain Cool” Became a Cultural Icon
The nickname “Captain Cool” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s the MS Dhoni vibe. Whether he was guiding India to the 2007 T20 World Cup with a young team, smashing that unforgettable six to win the 2011 ODI World Cup, or clinching the 2013 Champions Trophy, Dhoni’s ability to stay chill in high-stakes moments earned him this title. It’s not just about cricket; it’s about his aura—calm, tactical, and clutch.
Now, Dhoni’s taking this iconic nickname to the next level by trademarking it for sports training, coaching, and related services under Class 41 of the Trademark Filing Classification. Filed on June 5, 2023, and accepted in June 2025, this move shows Dhoni’s knack for thinking beyond the pitch.
The Legal Play: Overcoming Trademark Hurdles
Getting “Captain Cool” trademarked wasn’t a straight drive. The Trademark Registry initially objected under Section 11(1) of the Trade Marks Act, citing a potential clash with a similar mark by Prabha Skill Sports (OPC) Private Limited. But Dhoni’s legal team, led by Advocate Mansi Aggarwal, played a masterstroke. They argued that “Captain Cool” is synonymous with Dhoni’s persona, backed by years of media and fan association. It’s not just a phrase—it’s his identity.
After multiple hearings, the Registry agreed, recognizing the nickname’s unique tie to Dhoni. The trademark was published in the official journal, kicking off a 120-day window for objections. If all goes smoothly by mid-October 2025, Dhoni will officially own the rights to “Captain Cool” for sports-related ventures. Talk about a boundary-worthy move!
Why Trademarking “Captain Cool” Is a Big Deal
So, why does this matter? In today’s fast-moving world, a celebrity’s brand can fade if not protected. By trademarking “Captain Cool,” Dhoni ensures no one else can cash in on his iconic nickname for commercial purposes. Think sports academies, coaching programs, or even branded merchandise—Dhoni’s got it locked. With a brand value of $95 million (INR 766 crore), as estimated in recent reports, this is a smart way to safeguard his legacy.
This isn’t new in the celebrity world. Stars like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan have trademarked their names or phrases to protect their brand. For Dhoni, whose endorsements include big names like State Bank of India and Dettol, plus ventures like Emotorad, “Captain Cool” is another feather in his branding cap.
Dhoni’s Legacy: More Than Just Cricket
Dhoni’s impact goes way beyond the cricket field. His leadership with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL keeps him in the spotlight, even after retiring from international cricket in 2020. Sure, CSK had a rough IPL 2025, finishing at the bottom after Dhoni stepped in mid-season due to Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury, but his aura remains untouchable. Just look at his recent induction into the ICC Hall of Fame for 2025, alongside cricketing greats like Matthew Hayden and Hashim Amla.
With over 10,000 ODI runs at an average of 50.57 and the record for the highest score by a wicketkeeper (183* against Sri Lanka in 2005), Dhoni’s stats are legendary. But it’s his off-field moves—like trademarking “Captain Cool”—that show his business smarts. Fans on X are buzzing, calling it a “humble yet genius” move, with some saying, “Thala’s always one step ahead!”
What’s Next for “Captain Cool”?
As the 120-day objection period plays out, we’re all waiting to see if Dhoni’s trademark faces any challenges. Legal experts on X point out that proving the public’s association with Dhoni was key, especially since “Captain Cool” could be seen as a generic phrase. But his team’s airtight case has set a strong precedent.
If the trademark goes through, expect to see “Captain Cool” on everything from coaching academies to branded gear. At 44, with his IPL future uncertain, Dhoni’s proving he’s not just a cricket icon but a branding mastermind. Whether it’s a last-ball six or a calculated legal move, Captain Cool knows how to seal the deal.
MS Dhoni’s bid to trademark “Captain Cool” is a testament to his vision and legacy. It’s not just about owning a phrase—it’s about preserving the calm, clutch persona that’s inspired millions. As we wait for the final verdict, one thing’s clear: Dhoni’s still hitting it out of the park, on and off the field. What do you think about this move?
