TV Today moves HC against ABP, months after Chitra Tripathi shifted from Dangal to Mahadangal

TV Today Network, the owner of Aaj Tak, has moved the Delhi High Court against ABP News over the name of the latter’s Mahadangal programme, calling it “deceptively similar” to its show Dangal, Bar and Bench reported.

Advocate Hrishikesh Baruah, who appeared for TV Today, argued on Thursday that Mahadangal features journalist Chitra Tripathi, who was earlier with Aaj Tak and hosted Dangal, according to the report. This was confusing viewers, he argued. Baruah, at the same time, reportedly clarified that TV Today was suing ABP News only over the name and the petition does not have anything to do with Tripathi’s move to ABP.

Justice Amit Bansal reportedly remarked that viewers would be aware of the channel they watch and the word Dangal itself cannot be trademarked, highlighting the film Dangal. 

Justice Bansal then asked Baruah if the issue could be resolved through mediation as both are prominent TV channels. Baruah informed the court it may be considered on the next date of hearing.

Tripathi had stepped from her role as editor, special projects in Aaj Tak in October last year.  At Aaj Tak, along with Dangal, the anchor also hosted the 7 pm show Shankhnaad. 

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