The Bombay High Court has ordered startup bottled water company Aquapeya to halt all operations following trademark infringement claims by industry leader Bisleri International. The ruling comes after the brand received Rs 70 lakh funding on popular business reality show Shark Tank India earlier this year.

The court’s interim order prohibits Aquapeya from any manufacturing, packaging, distribution or sales activities while the case proceeds. Bisleri’s legal complaint specifically cited admissions made by Aquapeya’s founders during their television appearance as evidence of deliberate trademark violations.

According to court documents, Aquapeya founders Tushar and Ravi Mundada openly acknowledged using Bisleri’s distinctive green color scheme to capitalize on consumer recognition. During their Shark Tank pitch, they explained their strategy involved studying “preferred water brands based on color” in various territories.

“The trademark and associated artistic work is deceptively similar to the registered trademark Bisleri,” stated the application submitted to the court. Bisleri further alleged that Aquapeya used “pirated artworks” while intentionally leveraging established brands’ market goodwill.

The Maharashtra-based startup had secured impressive investment from Shark Tank judges Namita Thapar and Ritesh Agarwal, who valued the company at Rs 23.33 crore for a 3% equity stake plus royalties. The company, operating under parent Natvits Beverages, began operations in 2018.