Mahendra Singh Dhoni, fondly known as “Captain Cool,” has long been a symbol of calm leadership and clutch performances in cricket. From leading India to three ICC titles to redefining the role of a wicketkeeper-batter.
Dhoni’s legacy is etched in the hearts of fans worldwide. Now, in a move that blends his on-field persona with off-field strategy, ms Dhoni successfully had his trademark application for “Captain Cool” accepted by the Trademark Registry of India.
The Journey to Trademark “Captain Cool”
On June 5, 2023, Dhoni filed a trademark application for”Captain Cool”a nickname earned through years of composed decision-making under pressure. Whether it was steering India to the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ODI World Cup, or the 2013 Champions Trophy, Dhoni’s icy-cool demeanor became synonymous with his brand. The application, accepted and advertised on June 16, 2025, is registered under Class 41, covering sports training, coaching, and related facilities. If no objections are raised within the 120-day window ending in October 2025, Dhoni will gain exclusive rights to the phrase for these services.
The road to approval wasn’t without hurdles. Another company, Prabha Skill Sports (OPC) Pvt Ltd, had previously applied for the same phrase, but their application is now marked as “rectification filed” after Dhoni’s legal team, led by lawyer Mansi Aggarwal, argued that the term is intrinsically linked to Dhoni’s public persona. Dhoni’s petition accused the company of attempting to exploit his brand, stating, “This is a case of bad faith registration… aimed at deceiving the public and unlawfully enriching themselves.” After four hearings, the registry sided with Dhoni, marking a significant win for celebrity personality rights in India.
Why “Captain Cool” Matters
The nickname “Captain Cool” is more than a catchy tagline—it’s a reflection of Dhoni’s unparalleled ability to remain unflappable in high-stakes moments. From his helicopter shot to lightning-fast stumpings, Dhoni redefined limited-overs cricket, amassing over 17,266 international runs and 829 dismissals across 538 matches.
By trademarking “Captain Cool,” Dhoni is securing his brand identity for ventures like coaching academies and sports training facilities. With an estimated brand value of $95 million (INR 766 crore), Dhoni remains a marketing juggernaut, endorsing brands like State Bank of India and Dettol while investing in ventures like Emotorad and BluSmart. This trademark ensures that only he can leverage “Captain Cool” for commercial purposes in sports-related services, preventing unauthorized use and enhancing his brand’s exclusivity.
A Broader Trend in Celebrity Branding
Dhoni’s move aligns with a growing trend among celebrities to protect their personal brands. Cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo (with his “CR7” trademark) have secured their names and styles to safeguard their commercial appeal. In India, Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan have also trademarked their names to curb misuse. Dhoni’s “Captain Cool” trademark sets a precedent for athletes to control their narrative in a fragmented digital landscape where memes, merchandise, and unauthorized branding are rampant.
This trademark comes hot on the heels of Dhoni’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame in June 2025, alongside Matthew Hayden and Hashim Amla. The ICC praised his “extraordinary consistency, fitness, and longevity,” cementing his status as one of cricket’s greatest finishers and leaders. At 44, Dhoni remains active in the IPL, having captained Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2025 after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury, though CSK finished at the bottom of the table.
The “Captain Cool” trademark could pave the way for new ventures, such as a Dhoni-branded coaching academy or sports merchandise line. It’s a strategic move to extend his legacy beyond the cricket field, ensuring that the term synonymous with his calm leadership remains his alone.
Conclusion
MS Dhoni’s trademarking of “Captain Cool” is more than a legal victory—it’s a celebration of his enduring legacy. From leading India to historic triumphs to building a brand worth millions, Dhoni continues to make waves off the field. As the 120-day objection period unfolds, ms dhoni eagerly waiting for the final stamp on this iconic moniker. Whether it’s through coaching, endorsements, or inspiring the next generation, “Captain Cool” will remain a symbol of composure and excellence, forever tied to the man who made it legendary.