In Conversation with Indulekha on her Journey into the Field of Law
Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hi! My name is Indulekha. Currently, I am a practicing advocate. I completed my undergraduate law degree i.e., BA, LL.B from BMS College of Law, Bengaluru in 2019. Further, I completed my postgraduation in Criminology, Criminal Law, and Criminal Justice Administration from JAIN (Deemed to be University) in Bengaluru.
How did you start your journey in the field of law?
I come from a family of lawyers and that was my initiation to the field of law. Besides that, I also found the legal profession enticing. No one in my family persuaded me to take up law as a profession. It was completely my choice and out of passion to become a successful advocate or judge, I started my journey in the field of law.
How were your initial years in the law school?
During my formative years at law school, I encountered a significant hurdle in the form of an illness that challenged both my physical well-being and mental resolve. However, amidst the trials and tribulations, I found myself fortunate to be surrounded by a network of supportive individuals – my parents, family, my esteemed teachers, steadfast friends, and encouraging seniors.
Their unwavering faith in my abilities and their relentless motivation acted as a guiding light during my darkest moments. While these pillars of support uplifted me, there were, inevitably, those who cast doubts on the authenticity of my struggles.
Yet, as the saying goes, “For men may come and men may go,” their skepticism failed to deter my determination. I remained steadfast in my pursuit of excellence, channeling my energy towards my academic pursuits.
My focus remained resolute, as I brushed aside the naysayers and skeptics. Their opinions mattered little in the grand scheme of my journey. Instead, I channeled my energy towards proving to myself that I possessed the strength to overcome adversity and excel in my chosen field.
Through perseverance and hard work, I embarked on a path of growth and learning. The challenges I faced in those early years only fortified my determination to succeed. Each setback became an opportunity to rise again, proving my mettle to myself and those who believed in me.
As I reflect on those initial years at law school, I am reminded of the power of resilience and the importance of surrounding oneself with positivity. The unwavering support of my teachers, friends, and seniors, coupled with my unwavering determination, paved the way for my eventual success.
The trials I faced taught me that the journey towards achievement is often marred with obstacles, but it is our response to these challenges that truly defines our path.
What motivated you to pursue law as a career?
In the early chapters of my journey through law school, my motivation was fueled by the brilliance and wisdom of a select group of legal luminaries. Their profound insights into the intricate realm of law resonated deeply within me, serving as beacons that illuminated the path I was destined to tread.
Their dedication to justice, their mastery of legal principles, and their unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law ignited a fervent passion within my own heart. An equally compelling force propelling me forward was the intriguing contradiction within my family lineage.
Born into a lineage of legal professionals, my family’s legacy was woven with the threads of legal acumen and expertise. However, a striking void existed in my generation – a void yearning to be filled by the pursuit of law. This void, both a curiosity and a challenge, stirred within me a determination to not merely uphold the family tradition, but to elevate it.
With each step I took within the hallowed halls of my law school, I forged a new narrative for my generation, one that would carve its own unique mark in the annals of legal history. The collective wisdom of these luminaries, coupled with the significance of my family’s legal heritage, infused me with a profound sense of purpose.
This purpose extended beyond mere academic achievement; it evolved into a relentless pursuit of justice, a fervent dedication to understanding the complexities of the legal system, and a profound commitment to making a meaningful impact within the realm of law.
Tell us a bit about your experience while taking the entrance test for admission into LLM courses. How was that experience different from the time you took the entrance test for UG?
The journey of entering the LLM program stood in stark contrast to my earlier experience of entering the LLB program. While the LLB entrance marked my initial steps into the world of law, the LLM entrance represented a more refined and specialized path.
The LLB entrance, though challenging, introduced me to the broader aspects of law, while the LLM entrance demanded a deeper understanding and expertise in a specific legal field.
The preparation for the LLM entrance required a more comprehensive grasp of legal nuances, reflecting the advanced nature of the program. Overall, while both entrances were significant, the LLM entrance marked a pivotal shift towards a more focused and advanced legal education.
What were your top 3 sources of information while preparing for the law entrance exam? Did you prepare for the exam all by yourself?
I prepared for the law entrance exam independently, with my mother’s and father’s motivating guidance. My top three sources of information were comprehensive study guides, authoritative legal textbooks, and online practice tests. These resources provided me with a well-rounded preparation, enabling me to approach the exam confidently and competently
What would you say sets apart your story from others?
What distinguishes my story from others is the combination of independent preparation for the law entrance exam, fueled by unwavering motivation by my parents and family. This unique blend of self-driven determination and familial support became the cornerstone of my journey, setting me on a path of resilience and achievement.
Any advice you’d like to pass on to law school aspirants and law students?
Embrace a holistic approach to your legal journey, one that goes beyond the confines of textbooks and classrooms. While academic excellence remains paramount, remember that the law is not merely a subject to be studied; it is a dynamic and evolving entity that shapes societies and upholds justice.
Immerse yourself in real-world legal experiences, whether through internships, moot court competitions, or pro bono work. These practical encounters will not only enhance your understanding but also nurture invaluable skills such as critical thinking, negotiation, and effective communication – attributes that define a proficient legal professional.
Cultivate a thirst for knowledge that transcends your syllabus. Stay abreast of legal developments, landmark cases, and societal shifts that influence legal paradigms. This broader perspective will enrich your analyses and discussions, enabling you to contribute meaningfully to legal discourse.
Equally crucial is the ability to empathize. Recognize that behind every case, statute, or argument, lies a human story. The law serves as a conduit for justice, and empathy is the compass that guides you towards fair and ethical solutions.
Lastly, never underestimate the power of networking. Engage with fellow students, professors, legal practitioners, and alumni. These connections can provide insights, mentorship, and potential opportunities that could shape your legal journey in unexpected ways.
This interview is a part of our series #MyStory where we interview law students and legal professionals.
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Ruchika Mohapatra
Contributing author
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