‘Jati rehje’ gets legal shield: Comedian Manan Desai secures copyright on signature phrase

Vadodara: ‘Jati rehje'—a phrase meaning "leave at once" in Gujarati—has become one of the most recognizable catchphrases in Gujarat. But if you plan to use it commercially in the distinctive accent and style of stand-up comedian Manan Desai, think again—you might end up facing a copyright lawsuit.
Baroda-based comedian Manan Desai, co-founder of The Comedy Factory, has become possibly the first stand-up comic in India to obtain a sound-recording copyright for a signature catchphrase that consistently draws roaring applause from his audience.
"I've used ‘jati rehje' for years without giving it much thought. But over time, the phrase gained massive popularity. Audiences began cheering for it, so I started incorporating it more frequently," Desai told TOI. However, as the phrase gained traction, Desai noticed others mimicking not just the words but his unique delivery as well.
"That's when I decided to copyright it," said the 37-year-old comedian. "I even have a popular stand-up act named ‘Jati Rehje'. I don't want others imitating my style and profiting from it. Someone in the US even put the phrase on a car number plate! While that was flattering, I felt the need to protect what I created."
Desai emphasized that he wants to prevent large production houses from commercially using the phrase in his distinctive style. "I have big plans for ‘jati rehje'—including songs—so protecting it was necessary."
Intellectual property rights expert advocate Yash Suryawala, who assisted Desai in the process, explained the legal move: "We secured a sound-recording copyright so no one can use or mimic the phrase in Desai's unique tone and style. Anyone wishing to use it must obtain permission or a license. It takes immense effort to build a brand, and artists must safeguard their creations."