Historic Farewell in the Supreme Court: Women’s Bar Bids Emotional Adieu to CJI Justice Gavai, Welcomes Justice Surya Kant
(By Syed Ali Taher Abedi)
New Delhi, November 18, 2025: In a ceremony marked by dignity, warmth, and heartfelt respect, the Women’s Bar Room of the Supreme Court of India hosted a grand farewell in honour of Hon’ble Chief Justice of India, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai. The event, organised by Senior Advocate Ms. Mahalakshmi Pavani, brought together an exceptionally distinguished gathering of seventeen Judges of the Supreme Court, making it one of the most illustrious farewells held within the Bar.
The programme was conducted by Advocate Ms. Prerna Singh, who steered the proceedings as Master of Ceremonies with poise and grace.
A Ceremony of Rare Judicial Presence
The ceremony was graced by Hon’ble CJI Justice Gavai along with several esteemed Judges of the Supreme Court, including Justice Surya Kant, Justice Vikram Nath, Justice J.K. Maheshwari, Justice B.V. Nagarathna, Justice M.M. Sundresh, Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha, Justice Sanjay Karol, Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah, Justice Rajesh Bindal, Justice K.V. Viswanathan, Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, Justice Prasanna Bhalachandra Varale, Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, Justice Nilay Vipinchandra Anjaria, Justice Atul Sharachchandra Chandurkar, and Justice Vipul Manubhai Pancholi.
As a mark of deep regard, Senior Advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani felicitated the Chief Justice with a golden shawl, symbolising admiration for his judicial philosophy, humility, and historic tenure.
Ms. Pavani’s Address – A Tribute from the Bar
Welcoming the distinguished dignitaries, Ms. Pavani delivered a moving address reflecting on Justice Gavai’s remarkable journey. She praised His Lordship’s unwavering defence of constitutional values, his accessible leadership style, and his commitment to strengthening the Bar–Bench relationship.
She also acknowledged the assumption of office by Hon’ble Justice Surya Kant as the next Chief Justice of India, expressing confidence in his vision and jurisprudence to lead the Supreme Court with continued integrity and grace.
Warm Wishes for Justice Surya Kant
A formal congratulation was extended to Hon’ble CJI-Designate Justice Surya Kant. Senior Advocate Anitha Shenoy presented a token of affection, symbolising the Bar’s goodwill, confidence, and support for the incoming Chief Justice.
Justice Surya Kant then delivered an insightful address, sharing reflections on the responsibilities ahead and his aspirations for ensuring judicial excellence and institutional consistency.
Justice Gavai’s Valedictory Address
The highlight of the ceremony was the Valedictory Address by Hon’ble CJI Justice Gavai, who spoke with emotion and dignity. His Lordship looked back on his judicial journey and emphasised the indispensable collaboration between the Bench and the Bar in strengthening the justice system. His address was received with deep appreciation and formed the emotional core of the afternoon.
A Joyous Celebration
The farewell also carried a touch of celebration and affection. Senior Advocate Anitha Shenoy arranged a special cake, which was jointly cut by Justice Gavai and Justice Surya Kant—symbolising both a respectful farewell and a warm welcome to new leadership in the Supreme Court.
A Fitting Conclusion
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Advocate Bhakti Pasrija, who extended gratitude to the dignitaries, organisers, and members of the legal fraternity.
The farewell, filled with reverence, camaraderie, and institutional pride, stood as a powerful reflection of the mutual respect shared between the Bar and the Bench. It marked not just the end of a distinguished chapter under Justice Gavai’s stewardship, but also the beginning of a new era under the leadership of Justice Surya Kant.
