In our nation, Advocate’s Day is annually observed on the 3rd of December, marking the birthday of Dr. Rajendra Prasad (3 December 1884 – 28 February 1963), the inaugural President of India and a highly distinguished lawyer.
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BHARAT: Advocate’s Day, observed annually on December 3rd, pays tribute to lawyers and legal professionals worldwide, celebrating their unwavering commitment to justice, the defense of rights, and their role in shaping a more equitable society. In India, the day holds a dual significance as it also marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of Independent India and a distinguished lawyer.
The Crucial Role of Advocates in Society
Advocates have historically been at the forefront of movements that have driven societal transformation. Lawyers, with their deep understanding of justice and governance, have often taken up leadership roles during pivotal historical moments.
Prominent leaders such as Abraham Lincoln, who led the United States through the Civil War, and Robespierre, a figurehead during the French Revolution, were accomplished lawyers. Similarly, Lenin, the architect of the Russian Revolution of 1917, also hailed from the legal fraternity.
In India, the legal profession has given rise to eminent freedom fighters and constitutional framers such as Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Alladi Krishnaswami Iyer, and K.M. Munshi. These visionaries not only shaped India’s fight for independence but also laid the foundation for the country’s governance by drafting the Constitution. Many of them sacrificed their thriving legal careers to join the freedom movement, even enduring imprisonment for their beliefs.
The legal profession is regarded as one of the most challenging fields, requiring exceptional dedication, resilience, and ethical responsibility. Advocates are tasked with serving not only their clients but also the court, aiding in the administration of justice. As Nitya Ramakrishnan, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India, aptly stated,
“Advocates are meant to protect access to justice, and the talisman Gandhiji gave should be applied. Always think of the most marginalised, even as we legitimately build our careers.”
Advocates’ Day: A Platform for Dialogue and Recognition
Advocates’ Day unites legal professionals, labor officials, labor representatives, public and private sector managers, and mediators to engage in discussions addressing contemporary legal and societal issues.
It serves as a platform to honor the legal community’s contributions while fostering collaboration and innovation in the field.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad: A Beacon of Dedication and Leadership
Born on December 3, 1884, in Zeradei, Siwan district, Bihar, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was deeply influenced by his parents—his father, Mahadev Sahai, a scholar of Persian and Sanskrit, and his mother, Kamleshwari Devi, a devout individual. Married at the tender age of 12 to Rajvanshi Devi, his early life was steeped in traditional values.
Dr. Prasad excelled academically, earning a Gold Medal in the Master’s in Law examination in 1915 and later achieving a Doctorate in Law. His legal practice in Bhagalpur, Bihar, established him as a respected and influential figure. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Prasad left his position as a university senator in 1921 to fully dedicate himself to India’s freedom struggle.
He was elected President of the Indian National Congress during the Bombay session in October 1934 and played a pivotal role in the movement’s objectives. After India gained independence, Dr. Prasad was elected as the country’s first President, serving from 1950 to 1962. His tenure was marked by an independent approach, ensuring the constitutional integrity of the presidency.
Despite initial differences over policies such as the Hindu Code Bill, he successfully established enduring precedents for future Presidents.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s contributions earned him the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1962. After retiring in 1962, he left a legacy of dedication, ethical leadership, and public service.
Why Advocate’s Day Matters
Advocate’s Day not only celebrates the contributions of lawyers but also serves as a reminder of the role legal professionals play in upholding justice and empowering the marginalized.
By honoring the legacy of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, this day underscores the importance of leadership, integrity, and service in the legal profession.
In the words of Nitya Ramakrishnan,
“Always think of the most marginalised, even as we legitimately build our careers.”
This guiding principle encapsulates the spirit of Advocate’s Day, urging legal professionals to combine personal ambition with a commitment to societal well-being.
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