Manu Bhaker’s Manager to Take Legal Action Against Unauthorized Congratulatory Ads
Manu Bhaker's Manager to Take Legal Action Against Unauthorized Congratulatory Ads
Brands Misusing Manu Bhaker’s Image to Face Legal Consequences
Manu Bhaker, the 22-year-old shooter who clinched two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, is in legal disputes with brands misusing her photos. Her management company, IOS Sports & Entertainment, is set to issue legal notices to several brands that have been using her photos and videos in congratulatory advertisements without her sponsorship or consent.
Brands including Bajaj Foods, LIC, FIITJEE, Oakwood International School, Apricot Bioscience, Praneet Group, Radha TMT, Kineto, Parul Ayurved Hospital, and Xtrabrick Realtors have reportedly used Bhaker’s image in their marketing campaigns. Neerav Tomar, MD of IOS Sports & Entertainment, highlighted the issue of “moment marketing” where brands capitalize on trending moments without bearing the cost of sponsorship. “Since yesterday, almost two dozen brands which are not associated with Manu, have released congratulatory ads on social media with her images and their brands. This is not allowed legally and we are serving legal notices to these brands,” Tomar stated.
Currently, Manu Bhaker officially endorses Performax Activewear, a sports gear and fitness fashion company. However, she is in negotiations with about half a dozen other brands for potential sponsorships.
The misuse of Bhaker’s image by these brands raises significant legal and ethical issues. Although there are existing laws to prevent such violations, enforcement is often weak. In India, celebrities and their management teams seldom pursue legal action compared to their counterparts in Europe and the US due to the protracted litigation process in the country.
The actions taken by IOS Sports & Entertainment could set a precedent for protecting athletes’ and celebrities’ rights against unauthorized commercial exploitation. This step could also encourage stricter adherence to endorsement laws and foster a more respectful marketing environment.
