How India’s Top General Counsels Think: Rajiv Bakshi on Corporate Law, Governance, and Leadership

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishraIn today’s episode, we speak with Rajiv Bakshi, one of India’s most respected voices in corporate law and legal leadership. With a career spanning several decades, Rajiv has seen the legal profession from almost every vantage point—starting from litigation and industrial dispute resolution to serving asGeneral Counsel for some of India’s most prominent companies, including JSW Steel, Dabur, Godrej, and currently adviser to Deepak Fertilisers.What makes this conversation particularly compelling is not just the breadth of his experience, but the clarity with which he reflects on the inner life of the profession. We discuss how the role of in-house counsel has evolved from risk management to strategic value creation, the often-unspoken leadership principles that hold legal teams together, and the structural insecurities that continue to affect mental health in the legal ecosystem.We also speak candidly about fear, failure, burnout, and ethics—topics that affect young lawyers and senior professionals alike, but are rarely addressed with honesty and nuance. This is a conversation about law, leadership, and longevityin the profession.If you are a law student, a practicing lawyer, an in-house counsel, or simply someone interested in how institutions are built and sustained, this episode offers both perspective and practical wisdom.Guest: Mr. Rajiv BakshiTopic: What Makes a Great General Counsel? Rajiv Bakshi on Law, Business and Legal StrategyFollow Rajiv Bakshi Sir on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajiv-bakshi-51a03616b/Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer. LinkedIN profile of our Chambers:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishraIn this episode, we speak with Advocate Nandini Jaiswal, an Intellectual Property law specialist and former Trademark Examiner at the Indian Trade Marks Registry (CGPDTM), Mumbai.Drawing from her experience as an examiner, litigator, researcher, and legal writer, Nandini offers a rare inside view of trademark practice in India—how examination really works, where applicants and lawyers go wrong, and how global frameworks like TRIPS and WTO influence domestic IP policy.We discuss:·        What happens inside the Trade Marks Registry·        Digital-era challenges including AI, cybersquatting, and brand enforcement·        Harmonisation vs sovereignty in international IPlaw·        India’s evolving global IP strategy·        Career myths and realities for young IP lawyers·        Making legal knowledge accessible beyondcourtrooms and classroomsThis episode is especially valuable for law students, IP practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and creators navigating the future of intellectual property in India and beyond.Guest: Advocate Nandini JaiswalTopics: Trademark Law, IP Policy, AI & Law, TRIPS–WTO, Digital IP, Legal CareersFormat: Long-form conversationFollow Nandini on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nandini-jaiswal-ba51789a/Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer. LinkedIN profile of our Chambers:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra or our website https://anchor.fm/abhas-mishraIn this episode, We dive into the most common questions that law students and young lawyers ask when they’re just starting out. From choosing a practice area to getting your first clients, from handling low income in the early years to staying confident in court — this episode is packed with practical insights, humour, and a splash of anecdotes to keep things real.If you’ve ever wondered whether your grades matter, how to survive adjournments, or how to avoid burnout in the long haul of litigation, this is for you.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why you don’t need to “specialize” immediately after law school.The real value of grades in law school versus practical skills.How young lawyers actually get their first clients.Whether to join a senior, start independently, or balance both.How to survive the early years with little or no income.Practical ways to build confidence in court.The right approach to networking in the legal profession.Strategies to avoid burnout in litigation and keep your sanity intact.Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do notreflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant tomalign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not beconsidered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. The host will not acceptany liability for the actions of the listener. Always consult a lawyer. LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra or our website https://anchor.fm/abhas-mishraIn this compelling episode of Kanooni Kisse, host Abhas Mishra sits down with Dr. Parikshet, a seasoned academic and former litigator with nearly two decades of experience across courtrooms, classrooms, and committees.Dr. Parikshet currently teaches at the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, and has previously served as Central Government Counsel in the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court. His academic portfolio includes teaching Constitutional Law, Intellectual Property, and Comparative Public Law, while also developing online legal education for national platforms.But beyond academia, he has trained police officers, civil servants, and public prosecutors, and been part of policy efforts like the Mental Health Act, 2017. In this conversation, we discuss his views on legal education, state capacity, regulatory frameworks, and the untold challenges of justice delivery in India.This episode is a thoughtful blend of insight, experience, and aspiration — perfect for young law students, academics, and anyone curious about the bridge between law and governance.Reach out to Dr. Parikshet Sirohi on:linkedin.com/in/[email protected] and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. Thecontents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer. LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishraIn this thought-provoking episode of Kanooni Kisse, we sit down with Aditi, a distinguished legal professional with over a dozen years of experience in corporate law, international arbitration, and high-stakes litigation. From her landmark success in the Merchant Shipping Act case to her role as an Arbitrator in Admiralty and Commercial Disputes, Aditi has carved a unique path in the legal world. We delve deep into her experiences in negotiating high-value settlements, her tenure as a Special Counsel for the Bombay High Court, and her recent achievement as a Solicitor in England and Wales as a female. Key Highlights:• Navigating the complexities of corporate law and commercial documentation.• Achieving a 50% settlement rate through strategic negotiation.• Arguing as lead counsel before prestigious courts and tribunals.• Spearheading international arbitrations under LMAA, LCIA, SIAC, ICC, and New York law.• Successfully settling an international dispute under the Merchant Shipping Act.• Appointed as an Arbitrator by the Bombay High Court.• Earning the prestigious Solicitor (England & Wales) certification.Aditi’s journey is a testament to dedication, expertise, and resilience. Her profound insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for legal practitioners and enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of corporate law and international arbitration on Kanooni Kisse.Follow Aditi Pawar on:https://www.linkedin.com/in/aditipawar5657/Email her:[email protected] Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer. LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

For any questions, suggestions orqueries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishraIn thisepisode of Kanooni Kisse, we are joined by Pramita, the Founder andPrincipal Strategist of WeYou Partners, a leading brand consulting firm with a focuson the legal sector. With over 15 years of experience across industries,Pramita specializes in helping boutique law firms craft their brand identityand achieve sustainable growth through high-ROI strategies.Pramitais also the driving force behind W.A.L.You, a networking platform empoweringsenior women leaders in the legal industry. Additionally, she plays a pivotalrole in Quatro Hive, a six-month-old startup knowledge and media platform builton four pillars—law, policy, technology, and innovation. Through collaborationswith key industry players, Quatro Hive is dedicated to fostering a new era ofinnovation across industries.Key Highlights: Join usfor this insightful conversation that offers practical strategies andforward-thinking ideas for legal professionals and innovators alike.Reach out toPramita atLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pramitasen/Mail: [email protected]& [email protected]  Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host.None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer. LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishra In this episode of Kanooni Kisse, we sit down with Rahul Bakshi, a first-generation advocate who has established himself as a prominent legal professional in India. Rahul shares his journey from law school to founding Bakshi Law Offices, his expertise in regulatory compliance and cyber laws, and his role as a mediator. We also delve into his experiences as a panel lawyer for government entities and his thoughts on the challenges and opportunities for young lawyers. A must-listen for aspiring legal professionals and seasoned practitioners alike! Contact Advocate Rahul Bakshi on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahul-bakshi-94850470/ Explore the inspiring journey of Rahul Bakshi, founder of Bakshi Law Offices, as he shares insights from his 15 years of practice in the Supreme Court and High Court. Learn about his work in regulatory compliance, cyber laws, and mediation, along with his experience as a panel lawyer for DDA and GNCT. Rahul discusses the challenges of building a career as a first-generation lawyer, his vision for the future of law, and the evolving dynamics of India’s legal system. Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer.  LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠ कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishra In the final part of our three-part series on the Basic Structure Doctrine, we delve into the significant changes brought about by the 44th Amendment and the unresolved issues left behind due to a lack of political consensus. We also discuss the landmark Minerva Mills case, where the Supreme Court reaffirmed that Parliament's power to amend the Constitution is not absolute and cannot be used to destroy its fundamental framework. Through the lens of these judgments, we explore how the Basic Structure Doctrine has evolved to safeguard the rights of citizens and maintain the balance of power. From preventing the legislature’s overreach to influencing political decision-making, the doctrine has become a global benchmark, adopted in countries like Bangladesh, Slovakia, and Uganda. Join us as we wrap up this insightful series, reflecting on the doctrine's journey, its current relevance, and its role as the guardian of India’s constitutional soul. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this cornerstone of Indian constitutional law and its impact on democracy worldwide! Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer.  LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishra In this episode of Kanooni Kisse, we continue our exploration of the Basic Structure Doctrine, tracing the turbulent years leading up to the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case. As the 1970s unfolded, India witnessed a fierce power struggle between Parliament and the judiciary, driven by the vision of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. This episode delves into how this battle unfolded, the pivotal amendments introduced by her government, and how a seemingly simple property dispute would become the basis for a defining constitutional showdown. Key Points: The Aftermath of Golaknath: A quick recap of the Golaknath verdict, which limited Parliament’s power to amend fundamental rights, triggering waves of political and legal tension. Indira Gandhi’s Response: A look at the political climate under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who challenged judicial constraints with radical constitutional amendments. The 24th Amendment granted Parliament broad powers to amend the Constitution, while the 25th Amendment prioritized social welfare over individual property rights. The Role of the Judiciary: As the amendments took shape, the judiciary faced mounting pressure to define its role as a constitutional guardian. This episode discusses how the Golaknath ruling and subsequent amendments tested the judiciary's boundaries and set the stage for the next battle. The Entry of Swami Kesavananda Bharati: A fascinating turn of events began with a monk from Kerala, Swami Kesavananda Bharati, who sought judicial intervention to protect his monastery’s property. This episode explains how his petition spiraled into a constitutional debate on Parliament’s amending powers, leading to an unprecedented Supreme Court bench of thirteen justices. Setting the Stage for the Kesavananda Bharati Verdict: As the country watched, the Supreme Court’s thirteen-judge bench prepared to hear arguments questioning the scope of Parliament’s authority. We close the episode with the anticipation of the debates and the monumental verdict to come. Notable Quotes: “This wasn’t just about property anymore; it was about the soul of the Indian Constitution itself.” “Did Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution include the power to destroy it? Or were there certain ‘basic structures’—principles that could never be touched?” Why Listen? This episode sets up the climax of the battle over India’s constitutional identity, exploring the intense political maneuvering, legal arguments, and personalities that defined a critical chapter in Indian jurisprudence. Whether you’re a legal enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about India’s legal history, this episode provides a deep dive into the factors that shaped one of the most impactful doctrines in constitutional law. Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer.  LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse

Reposting this with intro and outro For any questions, suggestions or queries, you can follow and reach out to us on twitter/X at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AbhasMishra⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or our website:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/abhas-mishra   In this episode, we set the stage for the beginnings of one of the most important principles in Indian constitutional law—the Basic Structure Doctrine. What You'll Learn: The rise of constitutional amendments in post-Independence India. The Golak Nath case (1967) and how it sparked a debate about the power of Parliament to amend fundamental rights. The political tensions leading up to the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), setting the stage for an unprecedented judicial confrontation. The battle between Parliament and the judiciary over constitutional amendments. Key Moments: The clash between Parliament's will to amend and the judiciary's role in safeguarding fundamental rights. How this struggle led to a rethinking of the limits of Parliament's power. Cliffhanger: What will happen next as the Kesavananda Bharati case takes center stage? Views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not reflect the opinions of the channel or the host. None of the views are meant to malign any religion, ethnicity, caste, organization, company or individual. The contents of the show are meant to spread awareness and should not be considered legal advice. Do not imply solicitation. Always consult a lawyer.  LinkedIN profile of our Chambers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/76478950/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ कानूनी कहानियों और व्याख्यान के लिए सुनें Kanooni Kisse