From Village Boy To Supreme Court Judge : CJI Sanjiv Khanna Lauds Justice CT Ravikumar's Inspirational Journey

Speaking at the farewell organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association, CJI Sanjiv Khanna praised Justice Ravikumar for his determination, discipline and integrity as an individual and as a judge. 

"His journey is truly remarkable! Born in a village in Kerala, his introduction to Courtrooms was through his father who was a bench clerk in the Magistrate's Court in Changanasseri Municipality"

"All of us who have been born and brought up in cities and towns cannot imagine how difficult it is for a person from a village to come up and become a judge of the Apex Court. It is an inspiration for all of us, all the young members of the bar - whether in the High Court or district court, they can aspire to reach the pinnacle in this legal profession or as judges," the CJI added

The CJI also shared how Justice CT Ravikumar annually visited the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala and managed to cull out time for the family from his busy schedule. He also recalled how Justice Ravikumar told him of the secular rituals performed during the Sabarimala pilgrimage and said that similar values were reflected in the conduct of Justice Ravikumar. He expressed :

"I was told by Justice Ravikumar that the religious processions of the elephant rides from the temple begin from premises where the masjids are located - the harmony is also reflected in this vision that Justice Ravikumar holds for democracy. He doesn't hold any archaic notions of hierarchy and is someone who accords equal treatment and respect to people from all walks of life."

Lastly, the CJI described an anecdote: "I am told that his favourite nugget with youngsters- his law clerks is - I see life as B to D - B for birth, D for death and C for contribution in between. That is the motto he lives by"

 Attorney General for India R Venkataramani and SCBA President and Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal also spoke at the event. With the retirement of Justice Ravikumar, the Scheduled Caste representation in the Supreme Court comes down to two from three.

Justice Ravikumar was elevated to the Supreme Court from the Kerala High Court on August 31, 2021. He became a Judge of the High Court in 2009. He had started practice in 1986 at Mavelikkara in Kerala. Later, he joined the chambers of former Advocate General Senior Advocate M K Damodaran, a doyen of the bar. He has also served as a government pleader.

Justice CT Ravikumar : A Bench Clerk's Son Who Rose To Become A Supreme Court Judge