Tribute To Shri Ram Jethmalani Ji : A Charismatic Personality & An Exceptional Lawyer

‘A legend who would always live with us forever in our hearts, in our deeds and in our every undertaking, even God cannot take him away from us’.

It was long time back when I first met him very briefly as he was leaving after the conference.  I greeted him and he holding my hand asked me to accompany to his residence.  That was the day, the kind and benevolent dignity made me feel on top of the world. I can never forget this moment and his ever smiling face. I was completely amazed by his humbleness that a prominent figure among the attorneys could be so simple at heart. All this made me admire and adore him at the first glance. I was an upcoming lawyer and traditionally the renowned personalities and prominent lawyers have no time to glance at these youngsters. But Jethmalani Ji not only accepted my greetings, invited me to accompany to his residence.  

A People’s person so close to my heart, that I feel today left apart…….on his heavenly depart….

I did get several opportunities to travel with him to many countries and he was always surrounded by young as well as senior individuals taking selfie with him.  He was people’s person but never rude to young people. He would always encourage the young generation but we had to struggle atimes while escorting him. He was always full of energy and never felt tired, many times I felt like taking rest but he called, “ Kaviraj let us go and explore Berlin”.  There was a child in him ………   liked teaching students, anyone who wanted to learn.

He used to call me, “my dear young friend” and always very quick to point out, if I was wrong at point of time.  I did hear his thoughts on religion, social and political issues and asked numerous questions.  He used to answer/ explain my queries with reasoning; unlike many renowned personalities who just give judgment.  He was a person who would listen to you even though you are wrong and I never saw him getting annoyed, even during the conversations or discussion.  He would always remain calm and reasonable during discussions even if the subjects demanded complete intensity.  He recited mahamritujanya mantra every morning and said let’s see what happens in future; a pious soul who lived his life to the fullest and taught others the meaning of true living.

Once it so happened that, I was looking for answers what is right/wrong, moral/immoral etc. there was so much which was going on within me. I asked him and guess what he said; he laughed and simply said, never hurt anyone “Kaviraj” and answered my queries. Such was the adorable figure!

On all occasions, whether the court arena or outside in conference or normal meetings/discussions, he made everyone to laugh and feel comfortable.  The people never felt that they are talking to Shri Ram Jethmalani Ji or a young friend.  The people felt mesmerised after meeting and that feelings even continued for their entire life.  Once it so happened that INBA invited him for valentine day celebrations at Mumbai.  Everyone hesitated to dance before him.  Surprisingly, he stood up and asked to play song of his choice.  He invited everyone and started dancing. There was a long queue waiting for their turn to dance with him; however young guy like me could not convince girls to dance with me instead and wait for their turn to dance with him.

I would keep writing for my life and may not finish even then…  I feel short of words today, when I pen down to write my memories with him….. I am fortunate to have him in my life as a mentor, guide, teacher and sometimes a friend.  Today, his departure for heavenly abode has torn me deep inside, for I cannot go and meet him every now and then when I would feel happy to share the moments or when I would be sad and want his shoulder to rest on and guide me. Shri Ram Jethmalani will live within me forever and even God cannot take him away from us.  Let us work to fulfil his wish to eradicate corruption from politics and fight for the right of common people.

With the sad demise of Shri Jethmalani Ji, Indian National Bar Association has lost mentor and guardian. He was the Chief Patron of Indian Bar Associations under whose guidance, INBA reached new heights.  

Author By : Shri Kaviraj Singh

Secretary General

Indian National Bar Association