Symbiosis Law School, Pune, a constituent of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), organized Deeksharambh 2026: “A Journey through the Portal’s of the Law School”, the In-house Induction Programme for the newly admitted B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), B.B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), and B.Com. LL.B. (Hons.) students on 14 July 2026. The programme witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 750 students, making it one of the largest induction events of the academic year. Significantly, the incoming batch is the Golden Jubilee Batch, as Symbiosis Law School, Pune celebrates its Golden Jubilee Year, marking fifty years of excellence in legal education. The induction programme was designed to acquaint students with the University’s academic culture, institutional values, professional opportunities, and holistic learning environment.

The programme commenced with the watering of the Bilwa Sapling, symbolizing growth, knowledge, and the nurturing of future legal professionals. This was followed by the introduction of the Director and the formal inauguration of the induction programme.

The inaugural address, "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 newly admitted students, she congratulated them on becoming members of the Golden Jubilee Batch and described Deeksharambh as an initiation into a lifelong journey of learning. She emphasized that education is not acquired solely through textbooks or classrooms but through teachers, peers, stakeholders, and continuous self-learning, encouraging students to embrace every opportunity for intellectual and personal growth.

Reflecting upon the rich legacy of Symbiosis Law School, Pune, Dr. Gurpur presented an overview of the institution’s remarkable journey over the past fifty years. She highlighted the institute’s commitment to quality legal education, internationalization, research, and the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, which continues to guide the institution’s vision. She also emphasized that the institute’s academic ecosystem nurtures global competencies while enhancing students’ employability and preparing them to excel in an increasingly interconnected legal profession. As part of her address, Dr. Gurpur screened a short institutional video showcasing the achievements and evolution of Symbiosis Law School, Pune. She also referred to a lecture by Ram Jethmalani, reinforcing the ideals of integrity, professional excellence, and lifelong learning expected of members of the legal fraternity.

Introducing students to the distinctive strengths of the Faculty of Law, she highlighted the institute’s learner-centric approach, including structured curriculum development, periodic academic review, continuous feedback mechanisms, Open House interactions, internationalization initiatives, clinical legal education, Certificate of Continued Learning (CCL) programmes, lectures and workshops by distinguished national and international experts, and participation in activities such as SCALSAR. She explained how these initiatives collectively contribute to producing competent, ethical, and globally engaged legal professionals.

Dr. Gurpur also introduced the Career and Professional Development Cell (CPDC) and highlighted the diverse opportunities available to students through sector-wise placements, service internships, assessment internships, mock exercises, curriculum vitae development, drafting workshops, and sustained industry engagement. She emphasized that the institute’s objective extends beyond securing employment to preparing graduates for meaningful and impactful legal careers. Dr. Gurpur further urged students to consciously define their identity, align their learning with their career aspirations, identify their strengths, interests, opportunities, and choose their areas of specialization judiciously. She also encouraged students to explore the wide range of research opportunities, scholarships, and funding avenues available at the institute. Referring to Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi’s reflections on professionalism and advocacy, along with the Berkeley framework of twenty-four lawyering effectiveness factors, she emphasized the importance of developing strong advocacy, communication, analytical, and professional skills that would prepare students for leadership in the legal profession.

Following the Director’s address, students were introduced to the Students Advisory Board and the various student-led committees and institutional cells, familiarizing them with the institute’s support systems and opportunities for leadership and engagement.

The “Been There, Done That” Alumni Interaction brought together distinguished alumni, including Adv. Sampath Bulusu, and Adv. Vadeendra Joshi, who shared valuable insights from their professional journeys. They encouraged students to uphold discipline, integrity, patience, and healthy competition while making effective use of their time. The alumni emphasized that consistent effort and perseverance ultimately yield success, and reflected on the three enduring contributions of Symbiosis Law School, Pune, to their own journeys—Education, Exploration, and Enjoyment. They also encouraged students to actively participate in academic interactions with the faculty and make full use of the opportunities available during their years at the institute.

The afternoon sessions focused on familiarizing students with important aspects of campus life. Dr. Atmaram Shelke conducted a session on Anti-Ragging, reaffirming the University’s commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment. This was followed by Dr. Smita Pandey’s orientation on the Examination and CGPA System, which acquainted students with the University’s academic regulations and evaluation framework.

Recognizing the importance of student well-being, Dr. Rahul Bagale, Psychiatrist and Deputy Head of the Symbiosis Centre for Emotional Wellbeing (SCEW), delivered an engaging session on “Forging Lasting Friendships and Creating a Coping Mechanism,” emphasizing emotional resilience, healthy peer relationships, and strategies for balancing academic and personal life. Students also participated in a Yoga Orientation, conducted by Mr. Sunil Dangare of the Symbiosis Centre for Yoga, highlighting the importance of physical and mental wellness as integral components of legal education.

The programme concluded with a session on Campus Issues by (Retd.) Col. S. Sihorkar, Campus Administrator, who acquainted students with campus regulations, facilities, security protocols, and 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 welcomed the Golden Jubilee Batch into the Symbiosis Law School community. By introducing students to the University’s rich legacy, academic excellence, research culture, professional opportunities, and values-driven educational philosophy, the programme laid a strong foundation for their legal education and inspired them to embark on their journey with confidence, integrity, and a lifelong commitment to learning and 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 of BBA/BA/B.Com., LL.B Batch 2026

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

Yoga Orientation, conducted by Mr. Sunil Dangare of the Symbiosis Centre for Yoga

Students of the fresh batch of 2026 for BBA/BA/B.Com., LL.B Batch