Symbiosis Law School, Pune, a constituent of Symbiosis International (Deemed University) Pune, organized Deeksharambh 2026: “A Journey through the Portal's of the Law School”, the In-house Induction Programme for the newly admitted LL.B. and LL.M. students on 13 July 2026. The programme witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 220 students, including approximately 70 LL.B. and 150 LL.M. students. Designed to facilitate a smooth transition into law school, the induction programme introduced students to the institution’s academic philosophy, research culture, career opportunities, student support systems, and holistic learning environment.

The programme commenced with the watering of the Bilwa Sapling, symbolizing growth, resilience, and the nurturing of knowledge, followed by the introduction of the Director.

The inaugural address, titled “The Law School Journey,” was delivered by Prof. Dr. Shashikala Gurpur, Fulbright Scholar, Director, Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Dean, Faculty of Law, SIU, and Jean Monnet Chair Professor. Welcoming the incoming students, she reflected on the transformative journey that awaited them at Symbiosis Law School, Pune. Introducing the institution’s vision, mission, and remarkable trajectory since its establishment, she highlighted the distinctive features that make the Faculty of Law a centre of excellence in legal education. She emphasized that the University’s academic philosophy carefully integrates research into both the LL.B. and LL.M. programmes, encouraging students to cultivate intellectual curiosity, analytical thinking, and a research-oriented approach from the very beginning of their legal education.

Encouraging students to make the most of their academic journey, Dr. Gurpur reminded them that learning extends beyond the classroom. She urged them to continuously enrich themselves while remaining open to learning from their peers, observing, “Don’t forget to enrich yourself, as well as don’t forget to get enriched by your peers.” Stressing the importance of collaborative learning and intellectual engagement, she encouraged students to build meaningful academic relationships throughout their years at the University. Quoting the words of Ram Jethmalani, Dr. Gurpur remarked that “Law is not a profession of a mason, but that of an architect.” She explained that lawyers are not merely practitioners of legal rules but visionaries and social engineers who shape institutions and contribute to building a just society. Reinforcing this idea, she screened excerpts from Michael Sandel’s lecture on The Good Citizen, encouraging students to reflect upon citizenship, ethics, and public responsibility. She concluded this part of her address by reminding students that “We are all justice workers,” underscoring the broader social purpose of legal education.

The Director also encouraged students to view law school as a journey of personal and professional transformation. She urged them to consciously define their identity, recognize their strengths, interests, opportunities, and enablers, and actively shape their own paths as future legal professionals. Highlighting the University’s Graduate Attributes, she emphasized scholarship, professionalism, ethical leadership, and global citizenship as the values that should guide students throughout their academic and professional lives.

Speaking about student development beyond academics, Dr. Gurpur also introduced the initiatives of the Career and Professional Development Cell, highlighting its success in facilitating over 300 career opportunities through internships and placements across diverse sectors. She also spoke about the institution's strong corporate connect, development plans for LL.B. and LL.M. students, and the wide range of academic and professional opportunities available at Symbiosis Law School. Referring to Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi’s reflections on advocacy skills and the Berkeley framework of lawyering effectiveness, she encouraged students to cultivate effective lawyering, communication, study, and professional skills that would prepare them for successful legal careers.

Following the Director’s address, students were introduced to the Students Advisory Board, familiarizing them with one of the institution’s key academic and student support mechanisms.

An engaging “Been There, Done That” Alumni Interaction featured distinguished alumni—Adv. Siddhant Malegaonkar, Dr. Prathamesh Milind Joshi, and Mr. Kaustubh Anil Shakkarwar —who shared their experiences of navigating law school and professional life. Through personal anecdotes, they discussed the challenges they encountered, lessons they learned, and practical advice for making the most of the opportunities available during legal education.

The afternoon sessions focused on familiarizing students with the University’s academic and institutional framework. Dr. Atmaram Shelke conducted an informative session on Anti-Ragging, emphasizing the University’s commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful campus environment. This was followed by Dr. Smita Pandey’s orientation on the Examination and CGPA System, which introduced students to the University’s academic regulations, evaluation methods, and assessment procedures.

Recognizing the importance of mental well-being in legal education, Dr. Rahul Bagale, Psychiatrist and Deputy Head of the Symbiosis Centre for Emotional Wellbeing (SCEW), delivered an insightful session titled “Forging Lasting Friendships and Creating a Coping Mechanism.” The session encouraged students to build healthy interpersonal relationships, develop emotional resilience, and adopt effective coping strategies for managing academic pressures.

Students also participated in a Yoga Orientation conducted by Mr. Sunil Dangare from the Symbiosis Centre for Yoga, highlighting the importance of physical and mental wellness as an integral part of academic success. The second alumni interaction by Adv. Rahul Kothari, Co-Founder of Squarely Legal, offered valuable professional insights into the legal profession, inspiring students to remain adaptable, resilient, and committed to continuous learning.

The programme concluded with a session on Campus Issues by (Retd.) Col. S. Sihorkar, Campus Administrator, who familiarized students with campus regulations, facilities, security measures, and student support services. The formal proceedings concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Aparajita Mohanty, Deputy Director (Academics), Symbiosis Law School, Pune, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, faculty members, alumni speakers, and participants for contributing to the successful conduct of the induction programme.

The Deeksharambh 2026 In-house Induction Programme successfully acquainted the newly admitted LL.B. and LL.M. students with the academic culture, institutional values, and opportunities available at Symbiosis Law School, Pune. By combining academic orientation with discussions on research, professional ethics, career development, emotional well-being, and student support systems, the programme laid a strong foundation for the students' legal education and inspired them to embark upon their journey with confidence, integrity, and a deep commitment to justice.

Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, Director, SLS-Pune, Dean, Faculty of Law, SIU, and Dr. Aparajita Mohanty, Deputy Director (Academics), SLS-Pune, along with the Faculty In-charges LL.B. and LL.M. Batch 2026

Welcome Address by Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur, Director, SLS-Pune, Dean, Faculty of Law, SIU

Prof. (Dr.) Shashikala Gurpur felicitating Adv. Siddhant Malegaonkar, Distinguished Alumni and Adv. Rahul Kothari, Co-Founder of Squarely Legal

Students of the fresh batch of 2026 for charges LL.B. and LL.M.