I want to bring attention to a situation that highlights a growing and uncomfortable reality for many small, South Asian women-owned brands in USA.
Our lifestyle brand, Jaipur Rose, has been built independently over many years through personal investment, creative labor, and a deep respect for the cultural heritage the name represents. Jaipur Rose is not a random phrase; it is a legally trademarked brand identity in USA and India for multiple classes including tableware.
Recently a large corporate brand that publicly positions itself as a champion of small artisans and ethical creativity, launched a new collection using the name “Jaipur Rose.” This was done despite our existing trademark, without consent, collaboration, or acknowledgment. More troubling, they went so far as to file for trademark protection of the same name in India, effectively attempting to claim ownership over an identity that was already established and protected by a small, woman-owned business.
For a large, well-resourced company to appropriate not only the name but also attempt to legally secure it raises serious questions about power, ethics, and accountability especially for a brand that openly promotes itself as a supporter of independent creators and artisans.
This is about more than one brand or one name. It reflects a broader pattern in which “heritage,” “craft,” and “authenticity” are celebrated publicly, while the original creators behind those identities are sidelined when it becomes inconvenient.
Small brands deserve respect, protection, and good-faith engagement not silence or overreach when their intellectual property is involved. We hope this conversation encourages greater transparency and responsibility from larger brands, particularly those that benefit from narratives of cultural stewardship and artisan support.
Hope this is a learning lesson for small brands to file trademarks as soon as possible as that is the only protection you have against culture vultures and believe me they’re out there.
If you have any questions on how to file for a trademark or any small business related issues my DMs are always open. 🩷 #jaipurrose #jaipurrosecollection
