“I Wanted to Be a Vaastu Expert, But...” — CJI Gavai Chokes Up Recalling His Father's Sacrifices

Chief Justice of India, Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai, grew emotional as he recalled the sacrifices of his parents during a heartfelt speech on Friday, 27 June. Speaking at a public ceremony, CJI Gavai’s voice trembled and his eyes welled up as he opened up about the path that led him to the country’s highest judicial post.

“I wanted to become a Vaastu expert,” he revealed, “but my father had a different dream for me.”

CJI Gavai shared that his father once aspired to be a lawyer but was unable to pursue that dream due to his involvement in India’s freedom struggle, which led to his arrest. “He dedicated his life to serving Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar,” Gavai said, paying tribute to his father's commitment to social justice.

Growing up in a joint family with limited means, Gavai remembered how his mother and aunt bore the weight of all responsibilities. “To fulfill my father's dream, I let go of mine,” he said with emotion.

“My Father Wanted Me to Become the Chief Justice One Day”

CJI Gavai recounted that when his name was first recommended for the High Court, his father told him: “If you stay a lawyer, you’ll only chase money. But as a judge, you’ll walk Ambedkar’s path and serve society.”

Though his father passed away in 2015, long before Gavai became Chief Justice, he said, “I am happy my mother is still with us to see this day.”

When Hema Malini Caused a Courtroom Ruckus

To lighten the atmosphere, the Chief Justice shared a lighthearted anecdote from his legal career. He recalled a case in Nagpur involving actress Hema Malini over a cheque bounce. Representing the actress along with former CJI Sharad Bobde, Gavai said with a laugh, “The courtroom was so packed with people trying to catch a glimpse of her that it turned into chaos. Even we were enjoying the moment!”

The story of CJI Gavai’s journey—from giving up his childhood dream to honoring his father’s vision—left many in the audience teary-eyed, offering a rare glimpse into the man behind the robe.