On Thursday(14th March),The Bombay Bar Association held a tribute meeting at the Bombay High Court lawns for the esteemed Fali Nariman, attended by current and former judiciary members and eminent senior advocates.
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MUMBAI: On Thursday(14th March), The legal fraternity gathered in a solemn tribute at the Bombay High Court lawns, hosted by the Bombay Bar Association, to commemorate the legacy of the esteemed Fali Nariman. Current and former members of the judiciary, alongside eminent senior advocates, convened to honor his memory. This event symbolized a profound moment of reflection and respect for Nariman’s remarkable impact on the legal profession.
Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, in his heartfelt address, described Nariman as a unique blend of the finest qualities found in the legal profession’s most revered figures.
“He was a boon for the legal landscape of the country and would be an inspiration for generations. Now that he is no more, the vacuum is hard to fill in, but the least you can do is strive to remember him for what he was and cherish his legacy, that will live on forever,”
-he articulated, emphasizing the irreplaceable loss yet inspiring legacy left behind.
The Chief Justice further commemorated Nariman’s universal respect and enduring impact, stating:
“With the loss of the great soul, the nation, the legal fraternity, his family, and friends would miss him immensely, but he will always be remembered. Nariman’s journey ensures that he will never be forgotten.”
The tribute continued with personal anecdotes and reflections from senior advocates Avinash Rana, Navroz Seervai, Janak Dwarkadas, Darius Khambata, and Aspi Chinoy, each sharing their unique perspectives and memories of Nariman.
Rana highlighted Nariman’s humanity, calling him “a good human,” while Seervai praised his relentless pursuit of perfection and profound personal qualities.
“To delve on Fali merely as a lawyer would be a disservice to him for he was a man of great qualities of head and heart,”
-Seervai remarked, encapsulating the multifaceted nature of Nariman’s character.
Khambata spoke of Nariman’s bravery and moral fortitude, noting:
“He truly was the conscience keeper of the Bar and of the Supreme Court. He championed causes that were unpopular. He had the roar of a lion as also the heart of the lion.”
This testament highlighted Nariman’s fearless advocacy and ethical backbone.
Chinoy and Dwarkadas shared insights into Nariman’s professional acumen and personal advice. Chinoy humorously noted Nariman’s exceptional ability to “read a bench,” while Dwarkadas shared valuable life and professional advice given by Nariman, including the importance of prompt tax payments and the ethos of never refusing a brief, regardless of the client’s stature.
ALSO READ:PM Modi Mourns Passing of Jurist Fali S Nariman: ‘An Outstanding Legal Mind’
Senior Advocate Darius Khambata reflects on moments in history when greatness must be acknowledged. Despite the high court’s closure to honor Kanga, Invariariti’s passing, Nariman would have preferred otherwise. Instead, Khambata finds it appropriate to hold a condolence meeting on the lawns, given Nariman’s legal beginnings with Jamshedji Kanga. Nariman’s intellect and pursuit of perfection were evident throughout his career, with his courtroom appearances merely scratching the surface. Transitioning from a commercial trial lawyer to a constitutional expert, he remained committed to upholding the law. His principled stand during the emergency declaration, marked by his resignation and sworn affidavit, showcased his courage. Khambata acknowledges Nariman’s profound influence on his career, noting that even his conferences were more daunting than facing the court. His thirst for knowledge, seen in his post-work visits to the library, solidified his monumental presence in the legal arena.
The Bombay Bar Association‘s condolence meeting not only served as a platform to reminisce about Fali Nariman’s remarkable journey and contributions but also as a reminder of the values and principles that stand at the core of the legal profession. As the legal community and beyond continue to mourn the loss, the collective memory and respect for Nariman’s contributions ensure that his legacy will inspire future generations.
