HINDUSTAN UNILEVER LIMITED …..Plaintiff
Versus
RSPL LIMITED …..Defendant
Date of order:- 20.06.2025
Introexcel
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), the maker of Surf Excel, has dragged RSPL Limited, the company behind Ghadi detergent, to court over a series of controversial ads. HUL claims these commercials mock and unfairly target Surf Excel, harming its reputation. The Delhi High Court stepped in with an interim order, forcing RSPL to tone down its ads.
The Allegations: Mockery in Blue
HUL argues that RSPL’s ads deliberately mimic Surf Excel’s branding—using similar blue packaging and phrases like “XL Blue”—while making derogatory claims. One ad even twists HUL’s famous “Daag Acche Hain” slogan into “Iske jhaag acche hain, daam acche hain” (Its foam is good, price is good), implying Surf Excel is overpriced and ineffective. Other lines like “Aapka kare badi badi baatein, dho nahi patey” (Your product makes tall claims but can’t wash) and “Na Na, yeh dhoka hai” (No, no, this is a fraud) were called out as direct attacks.
RSPL’s Defense: No Monopoly on Blue
RSPL hit back, arguing that HUL doesn’t own the color blue or the word “Excel.” They pointed out that multiple detergents, like Ariel and Wheel, also use blue packaging. They also claimed “XL Blue” is a registered trademark of another company, not HUL. Essentially, they say their ads are just competitive marketing, not defamation.
Court’s Verdict (For Now): Pull Back the Insults
The judge agreed that while brands can compare products, they can’t cross the line into tarnishing a rival. Since RSPL’s ads prima facie appeared to mock Surf Excel, the court ordered them to remove the offending phrases by June 24, 2025, before airing the commercials again.
What’s Next?
The court set a tight timeline for both sides to present their cases. RSPL must submit its formal response within two weeks, after which HUL will have another two weeks to file a rejoinder. The case will then return to court on July 16, 2025, where the final decision could set an important precedent for how far brands can go in comparative advertising.
A Temporary Truce—For Now
While the court’s interim order forces RSPL to dial back the most provocative claims, the battle is far from over. The outcome could reshape how Indian courts view competitive marketing—balancing free speech and fair competition against defamation and brand disparagement.
About the Author
Neeraj Gogia Advocate is expert in commercial litigation, criminal matters, and divorce cases. He provides effective representation across all types of litigation in Delhi’s judicial landscape. Contact: 9891800100.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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