On January 18, 2025, Chanakya University hosted an inspiring lecture by legal expert Ms. Vindhya S Mani, Partner in the technology law division Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan, Attorneys, Bengaluru. A Renowned speaker and authority on intellectual property (IP) law, delivered an in-depth analysis of the dynamic relationship between IP and technological advancements. Ms. Mani began by elucidating the essence of copyright law protecting the expression of ideas rather than the ideas themselves. This principle, combined with the fair use exception, encourages creative freedom while safeguarding original works like books, songs, and films. She emphasized how copyright law empowers authors and musicians to protect their works from unauthorized reproduction, fostering creativity. Design protection, she explained, safeguards the aesthetic appeal of products, provided the design is visually distinctive and not solely functional. She further clarified that products could be both aesthetic and functional, illustrating this duality through practical examples. The lecture also introduced students to fundamental legal maxims like ratio decidendi and obiter dicta, key provisions of the Patents Act (e.g., Section 3 and Section 16), and the concept of judicial proprietor. Ms. Mani highlighted Karnataka’s court’s appellate jurisdiction and its significance in IP litigation. The session concluded with Mani underscoring the need for India’s IP laws to evolve in tandem with technological advancements to foster creativity, innovation, and economic growth. A lively question and answer session followed, allowing students to clarify doubts and engage directly with the speaker. The session was an informative and interactive experience, providing valuable insights into the critical role of IP laws in shaping India’s future.
