Author: Dr. Kalyan Kankanala

Dr. Kalyan Kankanala is a practicing intellectual property (IP) attorney and author. He is a senior partner at BananaIP Counsels, a well-known IP firm based in Bangalore, India. His writings cover a range of topics relating to IP law, business, and policy, and he has authored several books and articles in the field. He has been contributing to this blog since 2007. The views expressed here are his own and do not represent those of BananaIP Counsels or its members.

Lahari v. Ola: Copyrights and Criminals – Licensing by Deterrence

The Lahari v. Ola dispute demonstrates how copyright owners in India may leverage criminal complaints to initiate licensing deals with organized infringers. This approach, as seen in Lahari’s actions against Ola, combines legal enforcement with strategic publicity to strengthen copyright positions.

Creativity, Illegality and Intellectual Property

This article explores how Indian intellectual property laws address the interplay between creativity and illegality. It analyses the limitations set by patent and copyright law, emphasising the role of morality and legality in the protection of creative works.

Practical Pointers on Managing Patents

Effective patent management requires organized systems, cost analysis, and periodic auditing. Customising management strategies to suit organisational resources and jurisdictional requirements ensures robust protection and maintenance of patent portfolios.

Employment to Entrepreneurship: Arnab Goswami, Times Now, Republic TV and Intellectual Property

This article analyses the legal and intellectual property challenges faced by Arnab Goswami after leaving Times Now to establish Republic TV. It highlights key legal risks for employees turned entrepreneurs, focusing on trademarks, copyrights, and contractual obligations.

Fearless Girl v. Charging Bull

This post explores moral rights under Indian copyright law using the Fearless Girl and Charging Bull dispute as a case study. It analyses legal provisions, relevant judgments, and the balance between public and individual interests.

Censoring The Intelligent Film Spectator

This post explores whether film censorship in India remains justified, given the evolution of the film spectator’s intelligence and access to information. It advocates for a shift in the Censor Board’s role, focusing on certification rather than pre-censorship.

Proprietary Data, Trade Secrets and Information Security in India – An Integrated Approach

This article explores the legal and practical challenges of protecting trade secrets and proprietary data in India. It emphasises the need for an integrated approach, combining legal instruments, security measures, and organisational culture to safeguard business-critical information.

Ilayaraja v. S.P. Balasubramanyam

This post analyses the copyright licensing challenges faced by Indian singers, using the Ilayaraja v. S.P. Balasubramanyam dispute as a case study. It objectively examines the legal requirements and practical obstacles in securing performance rights for music in India.

Film Expression and Censorship in India: Intelligent, Informed Spectator standard (Part 5)

This article analyses film censorship in India using the intelligent, informed spectator standard and contemporary social norms. It highlights a structured legal process for assessment, emphasizing that free expression should be the rule and restraint an exception.

Review Committee Reports, Benegal Committee report, Mudgal Committee report, Censorship Model (Part 4)

The post critically examines the recommendations of the Benegal and Mudgal Committees on film certification in India. It highlights the need for reform in the Cinematograph Act, stressing the evolution of entertainment and diminishing impact of films on society.