2 weeks Ago
A room brims with the energy of media professionals and the rhythmic sound of clicking cameras as everyone eagerly anticipates a glimpse of Beauty with Brain, celebrated in Forbes as one of the nation's Top Lawyers and Top Managing Partners. On 25th March, the Honorable Supreme Court Judge, Justice Rajesh Bindal and Attorney General of India Felicitated Dr.Kshitija in Grand ceremony at Taj Palace,New Delhi.
But this was not the first time she had witnessed such glamour. In 2009, while pursuing her Master in Law, an all-rounder from Nagpur University emerged as a beacon of excellence. She earned accolades in debate, elocution, poetry, personality contests, and social work, showcasing her multifaceted talents.
Representing her university on both national and international stages, she was honored by the Governor of Maharashtra as an “Outstanding Student of Nagpur University.” Out of Eight lakh students across fields like MBBS, engineering, and MBA, she was the sole recipient who secured the highest acclaim in all categories as the ‘All Rounder Student’ of the university. Today, the BW Team reached out to this remarkable Lady Lawyer who represents Top Corporate Groups and Top people in the country, to let our readers know about her inspiring journey from the small town of Wardha to Mumbai and to get listed in Forbes, where she continues to make history.
How do you reflect on your remarkable journey from Wardha to Mumbai as a first-generation lawyer and a mother of one, culminating in being recognised by Forbes? Throughout my life, I have always adhered to two fundamental principles: fearlessly taking risks within four corners of principles taught by my professor's parents since childhood and tenaciously maintaining unwavering determination, regardless of the outcomes. From participating in debate and poetry contests during my school years to proudly winning the title of Personality Girl 2006 at Nagpur University, I have consistently strived to push boundaries and achieve excellence in all areas of life. My journey reflects a purposeful transition from being a devoted science student to becoming a committed litigation lawyer.
My dedication to learning led me to pursue an intensive five-year Ph.D. program in law.
This experience has demonstrated to me that success in litigation knows no bounds. Whether you hold an LL.B.
or a Ph.D., your potential for thriving is limitless! Having established my firm in a city far from my homeland's legal jurisdiction, I dedicated 15 years to building a distinguished career in financial crimes within India's legal landscape.
“When the Time came, I needed to put my 6-month-old baby in car parks for hours just to continue my litigation practice and my PhD in Constitutional Law. That guilt and pain always stay with the mother, yet it made me mentally stronger to realise what I am doing has a Cost,” says Dr Kshitija. This journey inspired me to embrace new responsibilities with purpose and determination as an Independent Director of Multinational Companies.
The recognition from Forbes validates all the hard work I've put in over the years. Your firm's outstanding pro bono work for underprivileged women has made waves. Do you think Forbes has recognised the impact of your contributions? Absolutely! Without a doubt, our country is overflowing with talent.
One must bring something extraordinary when it comes to catching the eye of Forbes. I am confident that Forbes considered every aspect of my work, particularly my unwavering dedication to women's and human rights. Fifteen years ago, I arrived in Mumbai with nothing more than a briefcase full of merits and medals.
Despite my lack of connections, I refused to give up and spent gruelling years establishing my identity in the legal industry. When I eventually landed a position at the country's top law firm, I promised to create my organisation and provide opportunities to deserving lady lawyers from small towns without any reference. Today, our firm prioritises hiring lawyers from outside the city, and we strive to create a sense of belonging within our organisation.
50 % of our firm revenues goes for pro bono cases.We have succeeded in numerous cases, giving women and the underprivileged their societal rights. “We earn from top corporate houses as a white collar crimes and corporate litigation experts.
But we derive real satisfaction when it comes to results . May it be corporate houses or women , the sense of making positive change makes all the difference. Better to say , we are result centric team .
”asserts Dr Kshitija Not every top student can make history .Women prone to weaker performance with responsibilities they have post marriage.Do you think your industry is still male dominated for the very reason ? We are still 21% at Bombay High Court.
Yet, victim mentality will only kill us. No one is coming and it's upto us. I believe women have tremendous strength.
I always say this that Warrior Goddess are always alone. Have you seen them with their husband or family ? Never..
If a woman determines she can do anything.The determination is the key and hence we know the phrase a determined woman is the most dangerous woman in the world. “In every career woman simply needs to identify her own set of strengths and apply that knowledge to her respective profession and she can do wonders.
” emphasised Kshitija. Tell us about your business model to reach as a Top Lawyer and Managing Partner of the nation as a brand of high standard legal services professional ? I grew up in the strict environment of my professor's parents who always impacted my mindset for principles of integrity in professional life. My learnings gathered over the 16 years and my outstanding academics, she says.
“Integrity and high sense of responsibility is in my upbringing which is our USP. I never underestimate that someone’s reputation and life are in my hands, and I must do my best to safeguard it,” she explains. Dr.
Kshitija plays a vital role in strategizing complex legal matters and achieving settlements. Her leadership has resulted in a high disposal rate with positive outcomes. As a result, she has gained the trust of top corporate houses within just 16 years of her litigation career.
BW Business-World wishes her continued success..
