20Jun, 2025
Complete Trademark Class 15 Product List: What Musical Goods Are Covered in India

Introduction

If you are a manufacturer, distributor, or seller of musical instruments in India, understanding Trademark Class 15 is essential for protecting your brand. Trademarks are categorized into 45 classes under the NICE Classification system, and Class 15 is specifically reserved for musical instruments and related goods. Filing your trademark under the correct class ensures legal protection and brand exclusivity.

In this detailed guide, we will break down the product list covered under Class 15, explain why it matters for your business, and provide practical tips for registering your brand successfully in India.

What is Trademark Class 15?

Trademark Class 15 under the NICE Classification includes:

  • Musical instruments
  • Musical boxes
  • Conductors’ batons
  • Cases for musical instruments
  • Accessories for musical instruments (within specific limits)

Class 15 is designed to cover a wide array of products associated with sound creation and performance. If your business operates within the music industry, filing under this class is crucial.

Why Is Trademark Class 15 Important for Musical Brands in India?

  1. Legal Protection: Registering your trademark in the correct class gives you the exclusive right to use it for your products. This prevents others from selling similar musical goods under the same or confusingly similar names.
  2. Brand Recognition: Trademarks help your business stand out in a competitive market. Whether you sell online or through physical stores, customers recognize and trust registered brands.
  3. Anti-Counterfeit Measures: A registered trademark helps in taking legal action against counterfeiters or copycat brands.
  4. Online Marketplaces: E-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Snapdeal require trademark registration to verify brand ownership and grant brand registry access.
  5. Global Expansion: Trademark registration under Class 15 also helps in filing international trademarks under the Madrid Protocol for global recognition.

Complete List of Products Covered Under Class 15

Here’s a detailed list of what can be registered under Trademark Class 15 in India:

  1. Pianos and Electric Pianos
  2. Organs (Musical)
  3. Guitars (Acoustic and Electric)
  4. Violins, Violas, and Cellos
  5. Harmoniums and Accordions
  6. Drums (including electronic drums)
  7. Flutes, Clarinets, Saxophones, and Oboes
  8. Trumpets, Trombones, and Tubas
  9. Cymbals and Percussion Instruments
  10. Bagpipes
  11. Synthesizers and Keyboards
  12. Tambourines
  13. Maracas
  14. Banjos and Mandolins
  15. Harp and Harp Guitars
  16. Tabla and Dholak
  17. Shehnai and Nadaswaram
  18. Xylophones and Glockenspiels
  19. Sitar and Veena
  20. Electric Bass Guitars
  21. Musical Boxes and Music Mechanisms
  22. Conductors’ Batons
  23. Stands and Racks for Musical Instruments
  24. Carrying Cases for Musical Instruments
  25. Rosin for Bows
  26. Tuning Forks and Tuners (Non-Electronic)

What’s Not Included in Class 15

It’s important to note that not all music-related items are covered in Class 15. The following are not included:

  • Electronic sound systems (Class 9)
  • Software and music apps (Class 9)
  • Educational books on music (Class 16)
  • Music streaming services (Class 41)
  • Advertising or promotion of musical products (Class 35)

Registering your brand under the wrong class can delay your trademark approval or lead to rejection.

How to Choose the Right Products for Class 15

  1. Identify Your Core Offerings: Make a list of instruments or musical goods you sell or manufacture.
  2. Match with Class 15 Descriptions: Refer to the NICE classification and check if your items fall under Class 15.
  3. Avoid Overlapping Classes: Don’t register software or sound systems under Class 15—use Class 9 instead.
  4. Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure, consult a trademark expert to avoid mistakes in classification.

How to Register a Trademark in Class 15 (India)

  1. Trademark Search: Start by searching the Indian Trademark Registry to ensure no similar trademark already exists.
  2. Drafting the Application:
    • Choose the appropriate class (Class 15)
    • Describe the goods (e.g., “Electric guitars, Synthesizers”)
    • Submit necessary documents (ID proof, logo, business incorporation documents if applicable)
  3. Filing the Application:
    • Online via the IP India website (https://ipindia.gov.in)
    • Government fee: ₹4,500 for individual/startup, ₹9,000 for companies per class
  4. Examination and Response:
    • The application is reviewed by an examiner
    • If objections arise, reply within 30 days
  5. Publication in Journal:
    • If accepted, the trademark is published in the Trademark Journal
    • Open to opposition for 4 months
  6. Registration Certificate:
    • If no opposition, the trademark is registered and valid for 10 years

Tips for Strong Trademark Filing in Class 15

  • Be Specific: Instead of just “musical instruments,” mention the exact products (e.g., “sitar, tabla, harmonium”)
  • Include the Logo: Visual identity improves brand recognition
  • Use Word + Logo Combo: Register both name and logo for stronger protection
  • Renew Timely: Renew every 10 years to maintain protection
  • Monitor Regularly: Watch for infringers or similar marks

Case Study: Successful Trademark Under Class 15

A startup brand, “Raaga Beats,” launched a line of premium Indian classical instruments in Delhi. They registered their brand under Class 15, covering:

  • Sitars
  • Harmoniums
  • Tablas
  • Cases for musical instruments

After registration, they were able to:

  • List products as “Verified Brand” on Amazon
  • Prevent knock-offs on Instagram and local e-shops
  • License their trademark to music academies across India

This shows how Class 15 registration can help even new players compete effectively.

Conclusion

Trademark Class 15 is your gateway to securing brand identity in India’s musical instrument industry. From guitars and pianos to tablas and shehnais, Class 15 covers a wide range of products that define the sound of India. Whether you are an independent maker, an exporter, or a startup launching musical products, Class 15 ensures your brand remains protected and respected.

Avoid the risk of counterfeiters and market confusion—file your trademark under the right category today.

Need Expert Help?

At VMK Professionals, we help Indian musical instrument makers register their trademarks under Class 15 with ease and accuracy. Let us guide you from search to registration and beyond.

Contact us today to begin your trademark journey.