Delhi HC Directs Patanjali to Remove Part of Its ‘Disparaging’ Chyawanprash Ads

Introductio

The Delhi High Court has ordered Patanjali Ayurved to remove certain portions of its *chyawanprash advertisements, stating that the ads *disparaged and belittled rival brands in the market.
The Court noted that Patanjali cannot promote its product by making negative, misleading or comparative remarks about other companies.

What the Court Said

During the hearing, the Court observed that advertisements must follow fair competition principles.
Manufacturers are allowed to highlight the qualities of their own products, but they cannot defame or insult competitors in the process.

The Court stated:

“You can promote your chyawanprash, but you cannot degrade others to do so.”

The judge added that the ad appears to mislead consumers by implying other brands are inferior or not authentic.

The Dispute

A well-known FMCG company approached the High Court complaining that Patanjali’s chyawanprash advertisement:

• Questioned the quality of competing products,
• Suggested other brands use artificial or harmful ingredients,
• Compared Patanjali as “pure and natural” while calling others “chemical based.”

The company argued that these claims hurt its reputation and misled consumers without proof.

Court’s Order to Patanjali

The High Court directed Patanjali to:

• Remove the objectionable parts from its advertisements on TV, digital platforms, and social media.
• Stop airing or circulating any content that shows rival chyawanprash brands negatively.
• Ensure that future ads focus on their product’s benefits without attacking others.

The Court also reminded Patanjali that false or unverified claims can mislead the public, especially when connected to health or Ayurveda.

What Happens Next?

Patanjali will now have to:

• Edit its existing chyawanprash commercials,
• Submit necessary compliance details,
• Ensure that future advertisements follow advertising and consumer protection rules.

Failure to follow Court instructions may lead to further legal action.

Conclusion

The Delhi High Court’s decision reinforces a clear message — companies may *promote their strengths, but they *cannot defame others for marketing advantage.
For consumers, this ruling aims to ensure advertising remains honest, fair, and not misleading, especially in products related to health and wellness.