Delhi High Court evaluates generational reputation in Bachchan family lawsuit

The Delhi High Court is examining whether a family's reputation can be legally protected across generations during a lawsuit filed by Aaradhya Bachchan. The minor, daughter of Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, initiated legal action against several YouTube channels for spreading false and defamatory content regarding her health and private life.

During the proceedings, Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani questioned whether a prominent family name functions similarly to a trademark's goodwill and how far such protection extends through descendants. The judge noted that while trademarks derive value from products or services, the legal application to a person's name and legacy presents a different context.

The lawsuit seeks to prevent the dissemination of misleading videos that allegedly claimed the minor was seriously ill or had died, as well as content suggesting negligence by her family. In April 2023, the court had already issued a provisional injunction to restrain certain defendants from publishing material concerning her health.