From Kerala to Delhi: Advocates Subash Chandran and Kavitha on Resilience, Partnership, and Building a Successful Legal Practice
Delhi’s legal landscape is as dynamic as it is demanding, requiring resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to justice. Few embody these qualities as profoundly as Advocates Subash Chandran and Kavitha, the powerhouse duo behind Subash Chandran and Kavitha Law Associates. Hailing from Kerala, this distinguished team has carved out a formidable presence in Supreme Court of India and other major courts of Delhi, and their journey offers invaluable lessons for aspiring legal professionals.
In this exclusive interview, Advocates Subash Chandran and Kavitha share insights into their journey from Kerala to Delhi, the principles behind their practice, and their advice for building a successful career in law.
Journey and Inspiration
Q: Could you share how your journey began together, from classmates to law partners?
Subash chandran: “Kavitha and I met as classmates at the Government Law College in Thrissur, Kerala . After our LLB, we both aspired to further our studies and experience the bustling legal environment in Delhi. We felt Delhi was the ideal place to learn from diverse cases and seasoned experts, so we took the leap.”
Kavitha: “It was a bold decision to leave Kerala, but our shared vision of making an impact gave us the courage. Moving to Delhi also meant adapting to a new way of life, from food to climate, which was challenging but helped us grow resilient. Today, Delhi feels like a second home.”
Thriving in Delhi’s Legal Scene
Q: Establishing a law firm in Delhi is no small feat. What challenges did you encounter while building your practice here?
Kavitha: Delhi is both competitive and multifaceted, with cases spanning across diverse sectors. One of our initial challenges was familiarizing ourselves with Delhi’s legal culture, which is distinct from what we had experienced in Kerala. The pace is quicker, the stakes are often higher, and clients have different expectations. Understanding and adapting to these nuances was a crucial learning curve.
Subash Chandran : Additionally, we had to build a network from scratch. Establishing credibility in a new city, especially one as vast and competitive as Delhi, required patience and persistence. There were challenges, certainly, but each one taught us resilience and pushed us to improve both professionally and personally.
Q: You’re one of Delhi’s familiar young South Indian lawyer couples. How have you navigated these transitions, and how did Delhi receive you?
Subash chandran: “Having been here for over 16 years, we’ve seen Delhi embrace diversity, and I think our South Indian roots have only added to our identity here. People can tell we’re South Indian by our appearance and mannerisms, and that’s something we embrace with pride. Building relationships over time has strengthened our ties with the community and with our clients.”
Kavitha: “Yes, being identified as South Indian is something that resonates with people here and makes us memorable. Our cultural background has been an asset, helping us connect with clients who value trust and professionalism. The Supreme Court and the Delhi legal community have been welcoming, and we’ve found ways to adapt while staying true to our roots.”
Q: For young South Indian lawyers aspiring to practice in Delhi, what advice would you offer for adapting?
Kavitha: “Embrace the change with an open heart. Adjusting to Delhi’s food, climate, and pace takes time, but once you adapt, you’ll thrive here. Accept the new culture, stay resilient, and use every opportunity to grow professionally. The diversity in Delhi’s legal arena will help you develop a broad perspective, which is essential in today’s field.”
Subash chandran: “Exactly, and I’d add that keeping an open mind is key. Delhi has immense opportunities if you’re willing to learn and grow. Being adaptable but grounded in your identity can help you build strong professional and personal relationships here.”
Building a Practice Together
Q: What are the unique benefits of working together as classmates, friends, and now as the partners of the Law Firm?
Subash chandran: “Working with someone who knows you deeply is invaluable. As classmates, we had a strong foundation in our shared understanding of law. As friends, we support each other through the challenges of running a firm. This trust allows us to work seamlessly and tackle complex cases more effectively.”
Kavitha: “Our dynamic is truly one of mutual respect and complementary strengths. Building a firm like Subhash Chandran and Kavitha Law Associates required teamwork, and the fact that we started as classmates only strengthened that bond. When we encounter challenges, we approach them with a shared perspective, making our firm stronger and our services more cohesive.”
Adapting to New Surroundings and Maintaining Balance
Q: How do you manage the demands of a high-stakes career with family life?
Subash chandran : “Discipline is crucial. We set aside time for family, particularly for our children, and prioritize quality time together. The support we’ve received from our neighbors and friends in Delhi has also been invaluable, as they’ve become like family to us.”
Kavitha: “It’s all about teamwork at home and in the office. Balancing both spheres isn’t easy, but having a reliable support system has been essential. Our kids keep us grounded, and spending time together gives us the energy to take on new challenges.”
Personal Interests and Reflections
Q: What’s your favorite travel destination?
Subash chandran: “I’m drawn to the Himalayas, particularly Almora. The serene beauty and tranquility of the mountains rejuvenate me. Kavitha and I love exploring the north.”and palakkad in kerala.
Kavitha: “We’re both fond of Jaipur, as well. The ethnic beauty and culture of Rajasthan fascinate us. Subash, in particular, is attached with the city’s vibrant atmosphere.”
Q: Do you visit Kerala often? What role does it play in your lives now?
Subash chandran: “We frequently return to Kerala for family events and professional commitments, though our trips are usually short. Kerala is home, no matter where we are, and we cherish the time spent with family and friends. While we’ve adapted to Delhi’s food and climate, there’s a unique peace we find in Kerala, especially in Palakkad.”
Kavitha: “Returning to Kerala is always a refreshing experience. While we’ve grown accustomed to Delhi’s diverse food culture, Kerala’s flavors are something we never tire of. The serenity of Kerala recharges us, and spending time there gives us a deep sense of belonging.”
Words of Advice to Aspiring Lawyers
Q: What advice would you like to convey to young professionals, especially aspiring South Indian lawyers?
Kavitha: “Stay dedicated to your goals, work hard, and surround yourself with mentors who can guide you. For young women especially, it’s important to believe in your potential and persevere through challenges. A career in law demands resilience and adaptability.”
Subash chandran: “Focus on building strong relationships, both professionally and personally. Success in law isn’t just about individual achievements; it’s about the people who support and encourage you along the way. With the right support system and a clear vision, you can achieve great things.”
Advocates Subash Chandran and Kavitha’s journey from Kerala to building a thriving legal practice in Delhi exemplifies resilience, integrity, and adaptability. Through hard work and unwavering commitment, they have overcome the challenges of establishing themselves in one of India’s most competitive legal markets through their law firm Subash Chandran and Kavitha law Associates.
For young lawyers and aspiring legal professionals, their story offers valuable lessons on the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and ethical practice. As they look to the future, Subash Chandran and Kavitha remain dedicated not only to their clients but to the broader goal of justice, making a lasting impact on India’s legal landscape.