The Delhi High Court now boasts a Literary Club, thanks to the initiative of the Delhi High Court Women’s Lawyers Forum. The club was established to foster a love of reading and intellectual discussion among the legal community.
The inaugural event took place on September 27, with Justices Rekha Palli and Chandra Dhari Singh in attendance. The club plans to host monthly sessions for its members. Senior Advocate Sanjay Jain and author-advocate Malavika Rajkotia also graced the occasion.
Justice Rekha Palli shared her passion for reading, emphasizing its importance for legal professionals. “In a profession like law, where stress is constant, it’s essential to read beyond legal texts. Literature—whether history, science, or any other genre—can take your mind beyond the courtroom,” she said. Justice Palli also recited lines from Attorney General R. Venkataramani’s poem Roses Without Thorns and encouraged attendees, stating, “If the Attorney General can find time to read and write, so can you.” She also read passages from Rajkotia’s book Unpartitioned Time: A Daughter’s Story, highlighting the importance of literature in fostering deeper connections and friendships.
Justice Chandra Dhari Singh spoke about the transformative power of reading, noting that the habit had been invaluable to him as a judge. “Books are like mirrors, reflecting what’s already within you and what you can contribute to society,” he said. He emphasized that literature enhances empathy and human understanding, which are crucial for judges. Justice Singh concluded by reciting lines from a poem by Harivansh Rai Bachchan, underscoring the enduring impact of literary works.
