Since the dawn of civilization, the legal system has played a crucial role. The establishment of laws and regulations is necessary for society to function without disruption and to guarantee that no citizen is deprived of their fundamental rights. The Indian legal system has seen extensive growth throughout the years, driven by legal luminaries and jurists. Ms. Esha Mazumdar, the managing and founding partner of Curare Legal, is one of the distinguished lawyers and has demonstrated highest level of proficiency while handling litigation, advisory, consulting, and transactional cases for numerous clients. She was also appointed as Addl Standing Counsel for the Government of NCT of Delhi (Services) and worked with tremendous success.
The Indian judicial system has greatly benefited from the contributions of brilliant female attorneys. Such inspirational lawyers overcome all challenges to victory by utilising their “intellect and strength” to advance justice in society. All women should follow their lead and achieve their objectives, whether they are personal or professional. That is why Entrepreneur Insights has highlighted Ms. Esha Mazumdar as one of the most successful women lawyers to watch out for.
Entrepreneur Insights recently had the chance to have a one-on-one interaction with Ms. Esha Mazumdar, where she shared her journey to success, which can be a source of motivation for several such aspiring female lawyers.
THE MOTIVATION BEHIND BECOMING A LAWYER
My journey into law is credited to my father, who inspired me to choose and pursue the career of my choice. I had considered pursuing journalism or law, as both professions would give me the freedom to think outside the box.
THE KEY DRIVING FORCES FOR BEING A LITIGATOR
Litigation as a career is very dynamic. There’s a lot to learn; it’s actually like an ocean out there. I’ve never fancied a desk job; litigation constantly keeps you on your toes, so the dynamic nature of this profession is the key driving force. Courtrooms are like classrooms, where every hearing teaches us something new; you just have to be open to learning.
Encounters with gender bias in the course of one’s professional career
In my experience, I personally did not face any gender bias from the judges. In fact, to the contrary, the judges have been extremely encouraging if you are well prepared with your brief. But frankly, I would admit that I have faced gender bias situations in rare cases from some opposing lawyers. But I have learnt to not give it so much importance, especially when all that matters to the court is merit.
THE IDEA BEHIND INITIATING THE LAW FIRM NAMED ‘CURARE LEGAL’
I always wanted to establish my own multifaceted law firm, and my husband, who is also a lawyer, helped me do so. I established the firm with vision to instil fresh ideas and novel thought processes in resolving complex legal issues of clients, which was the key differentiator for us. My time at the University of Manchester as an LL.M. student and the exposure to the multicultural environment instilled confidence in me to lead. The university truly inspired me to innovate and articulate.
TIPS TO BUILD A SUCCESSFUL CLIENT BASE
This profession primarily works on the trust that the client reposes in us, coupled with our knowledge and expertise in a particular field. Of course, it’s a very result-centric profession, meaning that even one satisfied client would surely help you expand your client base.
THE DAILY DOSE OF MOTIVATION THAT KEEPS YOU GOING
The zeal to learn something new every day and to give my best in every case that I take up keeps me motivated. It is never about winning or losing a case; it’s just about giving it your best shot. At least for me, it is important that I put my best foot forward, and the patient hearing that we get from the courts gives me immense work satisfaction.
MY SOURCE OF MOTIVATION ON MY PATH TO SUCCESS
Actually, there are quite a few people who have inspired me. It all starts with my father, who taught me some of the most important life lessons and taught me the importance of not turning a blind eye when something wrong is going on. My mother, who is a homemaker, taught me how important it is for a woman to be financially independent.
I also take this opportunity to mention and express my gratitude to Hon’ble Justice Badar Durrez Ahmed (Retd.). Some of my first cases, when I was much younger, were before his Court, and he had been extremely encouraging, not only towards me but towards all young counsels . He ensured that the younger generation of lawyers could present their cases fearlessly and confidently. He is one of the best judges I’ve appeared before; he had his own wit and way of mentoring counsels, even if they made mistakes, without demoralizing them.
My husband, Mr. Setu Niket, has also been a pillar of strength; he helped me expand my horizons and become more inclusive. He aided me by providing new perspectives on life and work.
BALANCING BETWEEN WORK AND FAMILY
Honestly, for practising lawyers, the line between work and family becomes very thin. Having said that, the balance is very crucial for your own sake and for your mental health. Now that I have a baby girl, I actively try to maintain that balance, especially when my husband and I are both lawyers and we inevitably carry work home. What works best for me is the love that I have for this profession, so I have never felt any work that I carry home to be a burden; it’s just about managing the time efficiently.
The Indian court system has greatly benefited from the contributions of such brilliant female attorneys. These courageous women overcome all challenges to victory by utilising their “intellect and strength” to advance justice and bring equilibrium to society. All women should follow their lead and achieve their objectives, whether they are personal or professional. On this Women’s Day, we honour those with such self-confidence who serve as role models for countless others.
Indrani Banerjee – Entrepreneur Insights