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ARTICLE · 01 DECEMBER 2025

Function v. Flair: Miniso's Mimicry Meets Judicial Blockade

S.S. Rana & Co.
S.S. Rana & Co.
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S.S. Rana & Co.

S.S. Rana & Co.

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In the field of intellectual property, the delicate balance between functional utility and aesthetic innovation often determines the designs' protections.

IndiaIntellectual Property

Introduction

In the field of intellectual property, the delicate balance between functional utility and aesthetic innovation often determines the designs' protections. The case of Travel Blue Products India Private Ltd. & Anr. v. Miniso Life Style Pvt. Ltd. & Anr1., exemplifies this tension, converting a simple travel neck pillow neck into a battleground for piracy allegations. Decided by the Bombay High Court on July 31, 2025, it underlines how visual appeal can succeed over claims of functionality and unproven prior art, offering significant direction for design registrants and enterprises.

The Design Act, 2000 (herein referred to as the Act) –Design Protection, Cancellation and Piracy

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