Early Life, Legal Career & Rise of the New CJI of India

EARLY LIFE & FORMATIVE YEARS

Born on 10 February 1962 in Petwar village, Hisar district, Haryana—a modest rural setting that shaped his grounded worldview.
Comes from a middle-class family; father Madan Gopal Sharma was a respected Sanskrit teacher, instilling discipline and values early on.
Completed schooling in his village, growing up amidst simplicity, community bonds, and strong cultural influences.
Graduated from Government Post Graduate College, Hisar (1981), demonstrating early academic determination.
Completed LL.B. from Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak (1984)—the first major step into the world of law.
Pursued higher learning even during his judicial career, earning an LL.M. (First Class First) in 2011 from Kurukshetra University via distance education, showcasing a deep commitment to personal growth and intellectual evolution.
A first-generation lawyer, breaking away from family tradition and choosing his own transformative path.

LEGAL CAREER — FROM BAR TO BENCH

Enrolled as an advocate in 1984; began practice in district courts of Hisar.
In 1985, shifted practice to the Punjab & Haryana High Court in Chandigarh.
Specialized in constitutional, service, and civil matters, building a strong foundation in core legal areas.
Known early for his clarity of arguments, disciplined preparation, and grounded courtroom presence.

Appointed Advocate General of Haryana in July 2000 — at just 38 years old, making him one of the youngest to ever hold this prestigious constitutional office.
Designated Senior Advocate in March 2001, reflecting the Bar’s recognition of his exceptional skill and credibility.

Elevated as Judge, Punjab & Haryana High Court on 9 January 2004.
Built a reputation for lucid judgments, empathetic reasoning, and deep constitutional insight.
Became Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on 5 October 2018.
Elevated to the Supreme Court of India as a Judge on 24 May 2019.

RISE TO THE OFFICE OF CHIEF JUSTICE OF INDIA

Appointed as the 53rd Chief Justice of India.
Took oath on 24 November 2025.
His elevation marks a remarkable journey from a rural childhood to India’s highest judicial chair—a story of perseverance, intellect, and transformation.

WHY HIS JOURNEY STANDS OUT — TRANSFORMATIVE ELEMENTS

First-generation lawyer in a family of educators—reflects courage to chart a new professional destiny.
Lifelong learner, pursuing an LL.M. while already a judge—symbol of academic humility and growth.
Grassroot understanding of society, shaped by rural upbringing and early district-court practice.
Deep experience across Bar, state governance, High Court administration, and Supreme Court adjudication.
Judicial leadership shaped by empathy, constitutional discipline, and a belief in accessible justice.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR INDIA

Represents social mobility and meritocracy within the Indian judiciary.

Brings a people-centric, rural-aware perspective to the nation’s highest judicial office.

Expected to influence reforms in: