Mahatma Award
महात्मा पुरस्कार
The Highest Honor
Mahatma Gandhi - Our Inspiration
The Lawyer of and for Humanity
As is well-known, Mahatma Gandhi had worked in multiple capacities throughout his life such as being a writer, politician, lawyer, editor, columnist, and a journalist. He has also adorned the robes of both being a follower and leader of noble ideals such as non-violence, truth, Hinduism, Indic ideals, feminism, secularism, justice, self-reliance (Atmanirbharta), welfare, substantive equality (including gender and caste equality), anti-colonial ideals, and various forms of abolitionism. In this article, we shall discuss some of Gandhi’s views on law and legal matters through his life, as well as his tryst with the legal profession.
Mahatma Gandhi trained in the law at the Inner Temple, London, and was called to the bar at age 22 on June 10, 1891, Gandhi was called to the Bar and shortly enrolled as a Barrister in the High Courts, after passing his law examination. Gandhi was noted to remark that, “It was easy to be called, but it was difficult to practice at the Bar. I had read the laws, but not learnt how to practice law.” This is a statement that indisputably every practicing Advocate across generations will relate to.
Gandhi’s declaration for the bar. Photo courtesy: Gandhi Research Foundation, Jalgaon
Gandhi’s bar enrollment certificate. Photo courtesy: Gandhi Research Foundation, Jalgaon
Mahatma Award for Legal Excellence
The Mahatma Award for Legal Excellence serves as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, honoring his legacy as a humanitarian lawyer and inspiring generations. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding contributions within the legal community, including individual lawyers, lawmakers, legal institutions, judges, legal academics, paralegals, and dedicated citizens. Reflecting Gandhi's commitment to justice and social equity, the award celebrates those who champion public interest litigations, support deserving law students, and provide essential pro bono legal services. Divided into ten distinct categories, the award highlights exceptional achievements in advancing legal excellence and promoting access to justice. By recognizing these accomplishments, the Mahatma Award for Legal Excellence honors individuals who embody Gandhi's vision of using law as a tool for positive societal change and the empowerment of the marginalized. The annual award ceremony attracts industry leaders from around the globe.
The Mahatma Award for Legal Excellence includes the following ten categories:
Outstanding Lawyer Award:
For individual lawyers demonstrating exceptional legal acumen and ethical practice.
Excellence in Lawmaking Award:
For lawmakers who have made significant contributions to progressive legal reforms.
Leading Legal Institution Award:
For legal institutions showing excellence in legal education, practice, or reform.
Distinguished Judge Award:
For judges who have delivered landmark judgments and upheld justice.
Academic Excellence in Law Award:
For legal academics who have made impactful contributions to legal research and education.
Exceptional Paralegal Award:
For paralegals providing outstanding support and services within the legal system.
Citizen Advocate Award:
For dedicated citizens who have significantly contributed to legal advocacy and social justice.
Public Interest Litigation Champion Award:
For individuals or organizations excelling in public interest litigation.
Pro Bono Service Excellence Award:
For those providing exceptional pro bono legal services to the underprivileged.
Law Student Support Award:
For individuals or organizations supporting and mentoring meritorious law students.
