10 Most Influential Indian Lawyers and Scholars

Published in

Heritage Digest

13 min readFeb 7, 2024

Numerous remarkable lawyers have shaped India’s legal landscape, each contributing significantly to its evolution. This article will explore the lives and legacies of ten of the most influential Indian lawyers throughout history. Their groundbreaking work, from courtroom battles to framing laws, has left an indelible mark on India’s legal system.

Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948)
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar (1891–1956)
Nani Palkhivala (1920–2002)
Ram Jethmalani (1923–2019)
Fali S. Nariman (1929-present)
Soli Sorabjee (1930–2021)
Keshava Parasaran (1927-present)
Ashoke Kumar Sen (1913–1996)
V. R. Krishna Iyer (1915–2014)
Motilal Nehru (1861–1931)

1. Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948)

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, was pivotal in India’s struggle for independence. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, served as a chief minister in Porbandar, while his mother, Putlibai, was a deeply religious woman. Gandhi’s upbringing was steeped in Vaishnavism, strongly emphasizing Jainism, which advocated non-violence.

After completing his early education in India, Gandhi traveled to London to study law at the Inner Temple. He was called to the bar in 1891. Gandhi’s legal career began in South Africa, where he went to represent an Indian merchant in a lawsuit. His 21-year stay in South Africa was transformative, as he faced racial discrimination and developed the concept of Satyagraha, a form of non-violent resistance.

Gandhi’s major achievements lay in his leadership of India’s non-violent independence movement against British rule. His methods included civil disobedience, boycotts of British goods, and leading several notable campaigns, such as the Salt March in 1930. Gandhi’s philosophy extended beyond mere political action; it was a way of life that sought to bring about change by peaceful means. Tragically, Gandhi’s life ended on January 30, 1948, when Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist, assassinated him. Gandhi’s death was a severe blow to the entire nation, plunging millions into mourning. His legacy, however, lives on, influencing movements for civil rights and freedom worldwide. The honorific “Mahātmā,” meaning “great-souled,” which was first applied to him in South Africa, aptly encapsulates his monumental impact.

2. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar (1891–1956)

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, was a visionary leader and architect of the Indian Constitution. Born into a Dalit family, Ambedkar faced severe discrimination from an early age. His father, Ramji Maloji Sakpal, served in the British Indian Army, and his mother, Bhimabai Sakpal, came from a modest background. Despite facing societal hurdles, Ambedkar’s academic prowess shone through. He was the only untouchable enrolled at Elphinstone High School in Mumbai and, later, Elphinstone College.

Ambedkar’s academic journey took him abroad on a scholarship to Columbia University, where he earned a degree in economics and later to the London School of Economics for his doctorate. He also trained as a lawyer at Gray’s Inn, London. His time in the West shaped his views on social justice, leading him to become an advocate for the rights of the marginalized in India. Ambedkar’s return to India marked the beginning of his relentless fight against social discrimination and the caste system.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s most significant contribution was as the principal architect of the Constitution of India. He chaired the Drafting Committee and shaped the Constitution to ensure equality and rights for all, including the most marginalized. As India’s first Law and Justice minister, he was pivotal in laying the foundation of the Indian legal system. His work led to major reforms that uplifted the Dalit community. Ambedkar’s conversion to Buddhism in 1956 was a significant event, marking his rejection of the caste system inherent in Hinduism. He passed away on December 6, 1956, leaving a legacy as a social justice and equality champion.

3. Nani Palkhivala (1920–2002)

Nanabhoy “Nani” Ardeshir Palkhivala, born in 1920 in Bombay, emerged as one of India’s most esteemed lawyers and jurists. His childhood was spent in Bombay, where he overcame a stammer and excelled academically, earning a master’s degree in English literature from St. Xavier’s College. Though initially aspiring to an academic career, circumstances led him to the Government Law College, Bombay, marking the beginning of his illustrious legal journey.

Palkhivala’s legal career commenced in 1946 at the Bombay Bar, where he quickly gained a reputation for eloquence and a deep understanding of commercial and tax law. Co-authoring “The Law and Practice of Income Tax” with Sir Jamshedji Behramji Kanga, he established himself as an authority in the field. His first major constitutional case was in 1951, and by 1954, he was arguing before the Supreme Court of India, making significant contributions to the interpretation of constitutional rights and freedoms.

Palkhivala’s most notable achievement was his role in the Kesavananda Bharati case, where he argued for the inviolability of the Constitution’s basic structure. This landmark case established the doctrine that Parliament cannot amend the basic structure of the Constitution, a principle that remains a cornerstone of Indian constitutional law. Palkhivala’s advocacy, revered for its depth and clarity, also led to significant rulings in cases like Minerva Mills v. Union of India, reinforcing the judiciary’s role in protecting democracy and civil liberties in India. Nani Palkhivala passed away on December 11, 2002, leaving behind a legacy as a defender of the Constitution and a champion of civil rights.

4. Ram Jethmalani (1923–2019)

Ram Boolchand Jethmalani, born on 14 September 1923 in Shikarpur, Sindh, was a distinguished Indian lawyer and politician. He completed his schooling with a double promotion, matriculating at 13. At 17, he earned his LL.B. degree with first-class distinction from Bombay University, and due to his exceptional academic record, he was allowed to start practicing law at 18, a year earlier than the minimum age requirement. He also obtained his LL.M. from the same university.

In his legal career, Jethmalani first practiced law in Shikarpur but had to move to Mumbai as a refugee following the partition of India. He quickly established himself in the Bombay High Court, challenging laws that he felt were unjust, including the Bombay Refugees Act. Jethmalani gained fame for his role in notable cases like the Nanavati case and was known for his defense of individuals involved in controversial and high-profile cases. He was also recognized for his teachings in law, serving as a part-time professor at the Government Law College, Mumbai, and a visiting professor at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.

Politically, Jethmalani was active in improving India-Pakistan relations, inspired by his experience as a partition refugee. He served as India’s Union Minister of Law and Justice, was elected to the Lok Sabha, and also held the position of chairman of the Indian Bar Council. Jethmalani was renowned for his outspoken nature and commitment to justice, often taking on challenging and unpopular cases. He passed away on 8 September 2019 in New Delhi, just six days shy of his 96th birthday, leaving behind a legacy as a fearless lawyer and a forthright politician.

5. Fali S. Nariman (1929-present)

Fali Sam Nariman, born on 10 January 1929 in Rangoon to Parsi parents, is a preeminent Indian jurist. He completed his early education at Bishop Cotton School, Shimla, and pursued his bachelor’s degree in Economics and History from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. Subsequently, Nariman obtained his law degree from Government Law College, Mumbai, in 1950, where he excelled academically, securing the Kinlock Forbes Gold Medal and Prize for Roman Law & Jurisprudence. His initial career path was influenced by his father’s desire for him to join the Indian Civil Service, but financial constraints led him to choose law.

Nariman’s legal career began at the Bombay High Court. Recognized for his legal acumen, he was appointed a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court of India in 1971, a prestigious position he holds today. His mentor, Jamsetjee Kanga, played a significant role in his development as a lawyer. Nariman’s tenure as the Additional Solicitor General of India, from May 1972 to June 1975, was marked by his resignation in protest against the Declaration of Emergency in 1975. He has been involved in several landmark cases, influencing the development of India’s constitutional law. His legal prowess has been acknowledged through various honors, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan.

Nariman’s contributions extend beyond the courtroom. He was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha from 1999 to 2005. He has held prestigious positions in various international legal bodies, including the International Council for Commercial Arbitration and the London Court of International Arbitration. His commitment to justice and legal ethics was evident when he resigned from representing the Gujarat Government following communal attacks. Nariman, married to Bapsi F. Nariman since 1955, is the father of Rohinton Nariman, a former Judge of the Supreme Court of India and ex-Solicitor General of India. His dedication to law and justice has made him one of India’s most respected legal minds.

6. Soli Sorabjee (1930–2021)

Soli Jehangir Sorabjee, a distinguished Indian jurist, was born into a Parsi family in Bombay on March 9, 1930. He received his education at Bharda New High School, Mumbai, followed by St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and then the Government Law College, Mumbai. At law college, he excelled academically, winning the Kinloch Forbes Gold Medal in Roman Law and Jurisprudence in 1952. He was admitted to the bar in 1953, setting the stage for a remarkable legal career.

Significant milestones marked Sorabjee’s legal journey. In 1971, he was designated as a senior advocate of the Bombay High Court. He served as the Solicitor-General of India from 1977 to 1980 and was appointed the Attorney-General for India twice, first from 1989 to 1990 and then from 1998 to 2004. His legal prowess was recognized nationally in 2002 when he received the Padma Vibhushan for his defense of freedom of expression and protection of human rights. Notably, during the Emergency (1975–1977), Sorabjee provided legal aid to political prisoners and later worked pro bono for the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots through the Citizen’s Justice Committee.

Sorabjee was also prominent on the international stage. He was appointed an honorary member of the Order of Australia in 2006 for his service to India-Australia bilateral legal relations. His role in key cases like Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala and Maneka Gandhi v Union of India had a lasting impact on interpreting the Indian Constitution. He served on various international bodies, including the United Nations Human Rights Commission and the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague. Sorabjee’s personal life was as vibrant as his professional one. He shared a close friendship with fellow jurist Nanabhoy Palkhivala, and his daughter, Zia Mody, is a renowned lawyer. Sorabjee was a passionate jazz enthusiast and played the clarinet. He passed away due to COVID-19 on 30 April 2021, leaving behind a legacy in the legal fraternity.

7. Keshava Parasaran (1927-present)

Keshava Parasaran, born on 9 October 1927 in Srirangam district of Tamil Nadu, is a renowned Indian lawyer. The son of Kesava Iyengar, a lawyer, and Shrimati Ranganayaki, Parasaran grew up in a milieu that valued legal and academic excellence. Notable achievements marked his early education. During his BL (now BA. LLB) studies, he was honored with the Shri Justice C.V. Kumaraswami Sastri Sanskrit Medal and the Justice Shri V. Bhashyam Iyengar Gold Medal in Hindu Law. His academic prowess continued during the Bar Council examination, where he received the Justice Shri K.S. Krishnaswamy Iyengar Medal.

Several high-profile roles and recognitions distinguish Parasaran’s legal career. He served as the Advocate General of Tamil Nadu during the President’s rule in 1976. He later ascended to national prominence as the Solicitor General of India under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Subsequently, he was appointed Attorney General of India, serving under Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi from 1983 to 1989. His legal acumen and contributions to the field were recognized with the Padma Bhushan in 2003 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2011. In June 2012, he received a prestigious presidential nomination to the Rajya Sabha for six years.

Throughout his career, Parasaran has been involved in several landmark cases that have shaped Indian jurisprudence. Notably, he defended the National Judicial Appointments Commission in 2014. In the Sabarimala case, he represented the Nair Service Society, arguing in favor of the temple’s tradition of restricting the entry of menstruating women, citing religious texts to bolster his case. His legal prowess was further highlighted in the Ayodhya land dispute case, where he successfully represented the Hindu parties. He was later named as a trustee in the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, which oversees the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Parasaran’s personal life is equally fulfilling. He married Saroja in 1949, and the couple has three sons, including Mohan Parasaran, who served as the Solicitor General of India, and two daughters.

8. Ashoke Kumar Sen (1913–1996)

Ashoke Kumar Sen, born in 1913 into a distinguished Baidya-Brahmin family, was a prominent Indian barrister and political figure. His father served as a district magistrate, providing a stable and nurturing environment for his upbringing. Ashoke and his elder brother, Sukumar Sen, the first Chief Election Commissioner of India, Sudan, and Nepal, were students at Sambalpur High School in Odisha. Ashoke’s education was notably supported by his brother, enabling him to study at the London School of Economics and subsequently at Gray’s Inn. Upon returning to India, he began teaching law at City College, Kolkata, affiliated with the University of Calcutta and later practiced at the Calcutta High Court.

Sen’s legal career was marked by rapid success. He gained recognition as one of the leading lawyers at the Calcutta High Court within just five years of practice. He wrote extensively, including a book on Commercial Law endorsed by his senior, Sudhi Ranjan Das, later the Chief Justice of India. Sen also served as the Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court and was President of the Supreme Court Bar Association several times. His contributions to legal literature were significant, including editing the Calcutta Law Journal.

Sen’s political career began when Bidhan Chandra Roy, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, recommended him to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Impressed by Sen’s legal expertise, Nehru invited him to join his cabinet. Sen contested the Lok Sabha elections and won the Calcutta North West seat, holding it for multiple terms. He served as a Member of Parliament in the Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth, and Eighth Lok Sabhas and later as a Rajya Sabha member until a few months before he died in 1996. During his ministerial career, Sen served under seven prime ministers in various capacities, including Union Law Minister, and was India’s representative at several international conferences. His contributions to the legal and political realms were substantial, and he is remembered for his role in shaping Indian law and governance.

9. V. R. Krishna Iyer (1915–2014)

Justice Vaidyanathapuram Rama Iyer Krishna Iyer, born on 15 November 1915 in Palakkad, Kerala, was a renowned figure in the Indian legal fraternity. His upbringing in a Tamil Brahmin family, with his father being a lawyer, deeply influenced his path. Krishna Iyer’s early education at Basel Evangelical Mission Parsi High School in Thalassery and Government Victoria College in Palakkad laid a solid foundation for his illustrious career. His academic journey continued at Annamalai University and Dr. Ambedkar Government Law College in Chennai, where he excelled, earning gold medals in Roman Law and Hindu Law.

Krishna Iyer’s legal career began in 1938 in his father’s chamber in Thalassery, where he quickly gained recognition for his legal acumen. His strong sense of justice was evident early on when he was imprisoned for a month in 1948 for protesting police torture. This incident marked his unwavering commitment to human rights and legal ethics. As a lawyer, Krishna Iyer was known for his advocacy and efforts towards legal aid for the poor, initiating significant reforms in the judiciary and prison system. He also contributed significantly to land and labor laws, and his efforts in resolving inter-state water disputes are notable.

Krishna Iyer’s judicial career was marked by his appointment as a judge of the Kerala High Court in 1968 and his elevation to the Supreme Court of India in 1973. His tenure in the Supreme Court was distinguished by his involvement in several landmark cases that shaped Indian jurisprudence. Krishna Iyer was instrumental in developing the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concept in India, democratizing access to justice. His judgments often reflected a deep concern for human rights and social justice, making him a pioneer of judicial activism. His contributions to the Law Commission of India, particularly in advocating legal aid, were significant in advancing the legal aid movement in the country. Justice Krishna Iyer passed away on 4 December 2014, leaving a legacy as a compassionate and progressive jurist. His life and work inspire lawyers and human rights activists, and his judgments remain influential in the higher judiciary.

10. Motilal Nehru (1861–1931)

Motilal Nehru was born on May 6, 1861, in Agra, as the posthumous son of Gangadhar Nehru, a kotwal in Delhi, and his wife Indrani. Following the Indian Mutiny in 1857, his family faced significant hardships, leading to a move to Agra. These turbulent times marked Motilal’s upbringing, impacting his early life and family’s financial stability. His education began under these challenging circumstances, setting the stage for his future legal career.

In 1883, Nehru passed the bar examination and began his law practice in Kanpur. He moved to Allahabad three years later to join his brother’s practice. Nehru quickly gained a reputation as a skilled lawyer, particularly in civil cases involving large land-owning families. His legal career peaked in 1909 when he earned the right to appear in the Privy Council in Great Britain. This achievement and his refusal to adhere to traditional Hindu customs after overseas travel highlighted his progressive approach and legal acumen.

Motilal Nehru’s legal career was intertwined with his political activism. As a lawyer, he used his skills and influence to challenge the British colonial rule in India. His role as the Congress Party President during critical periods of the Indian independence movement reflected his commitment to the cause. Nehru’s contributions extended beyond law and politics; he helped shape India’s journey towards independence. He passed away on February 6, 1931, leaving a legacy as a pioneering lawyer and a key figure in India’s struggle for freedom.