How to Legally Own Your Podcast or YouTube Brand Name in India: Trademark Guide for Creators 

If you’re a content creator, podcaster, or YouTuber in India, your name, slogan, or intro tune isn’t just creative output—it’s your brand. Trademarking it gives you the legal right to protect that identity, stop copycats, and build long-term value for collaborations, monetization, and partnerships.

Whether you’re just starting out or already growing a loyal audience, here’s how to secure your brand name with a trademark in India.

Process to Legally Own Your Podcast or YouTube Brand Name in India:

Step 1: Search Availability   

Before filing, check if the Trademark name is available.

Use the IP India Public Search Tool to search under:

• Class 41 for entertainment, podcasts, education, YouTube

• Class 35 for influencer branding, marketing, or promotion services

Also verify:

• If similar names exist on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

• Domain names or Instagram handles

• Google search for existing brands or trademark filings

If someone already owns a similar name, your trademark may get objected to or delayed.

Step 2: Decide Who Owns the Trademark   

You need to choose who will legally own the trademark.

Ownership affects licensing, brand transfer, and even sponsorship rights in the future.

Step 3: Prepare What You Need   

Gather the following before filing:

• The podcast or YouTube name, tagline, or slogan you want to protect

• A short description of what your brand does (example: “education podcast on startup trends”)

• Identity proof (PAN or Aadhaar for individuals, COI/CIN for companies)

• Logo (if you also want to register visual elements)

• A signed Power of Attorney (POA) if you’re filing through a service provider like Ebizfiling

Step 4: File the Trademark Application   

Trademark applications can be filed online via the IP India e-filing portal.

But many creators choose to go through a professional trademark service provider to avoid confusion or mistakes.

Once the application is submitted, you’ll receive an official acknowledgement. At this point, you can legally start using the ™ symbol with your brand name.

Step 5: Examination and Objection Handling   

After you file, your application will be examined by the Trademark Registry.

Here’s what might happen:

• Accepted: It moves ahead to be published in the Trademark Journal.

• Objected: You’ll need to reply with clarifications or documents.

• Hearing Required: You (or your legal representative) will attend a hearing to explain your claim.

If there’s no third-party opposition during the four-month journal period, the application proceeds to registration.

Step 6: Registration   

Once approved, you’ll receive a Trademark Registration Certificate.

Your trademark is now officially valid for 10 years, with the option to renew it indefinitely. You can now start using the ® symbol to show legal ownership of your brand.

Bonus: What Else Can You Trademark?  

Creators often overlook other valuable brand elements they can protect:

• Intro tune: File as a Sound Mark

• Catchphrases or slogans: File as a Word Mark

• Logos, thumbnails, or channel art: File as a Device Mark

• Series name: If you produce multiple shows under one title, consider a Series Mark strategy.

Why Creators Shouldn’t Delay ?

Your podcast or YouTube name is more than a title; it’s your digital asset. The longer you wait to protect it, the more likely it is that someone else might claim it first.

With India’s creator economy expanding quickly, protecting your content identity now can save you trouble later.

Need Help?   

Ebizfiling helps creators and digital entrepreneurs protect their brand names through trademark registration.

We assist with:

• Filing trademark applications for YouTubers and podcasters

• Drafting consent forms and Power of Attorney

• Responding to objections or examination reports

• Full support with document preparation and follow-up

Start your application at www.ebizfiling.com or reach out at info@ebizfiling.com to speak with our legal team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)