The field of legal education is undergoing significant transformation, driven by evolving societal demands, rapid technological progress, and complex global challenges. In particular, the legal profession is being revolutionized by technology, prompting law schools to continuously adapt their curricula to prepare students for this dynamic landscape. Moreover, modern law schools are increasingly emphasizing experiential learning, such as legal clinics, mock courts, and internships, to bridge the gap between theory and practice. They are also committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion to address systemic inequalities within the legal profession.
One notable institution exemplifying these progressive ideals is Gopaldas Jhamatmal Advani Law College (GJALC) in Mumbai. Since its establishment in 1977, the college has been dedicated to imparting high-quality legal education within a disciplined environment that fosters the holistic development of students. It instills strong social and moral values, shaping well-rounded legal professionals. This commitment has earned it a reputation as one of India’s leading law institutes consistently ranked among the top in the country.
From Scratch
Founded in 1977 by the Hyderabad (Sind) National Collegiate Board, Gopaldas Jhamatmal Advani Law College, popularly known as G.J. Advani Law College is a distinguished institution permanently affiliated with the University of Mumbai. It holds recognition under Sections 2(f) and 12(B) of the University Grants Commission Act, 1956, and is also approved by the Bar Council of India, New Delhi, for offering the three-year LL.B. degree as well as the two-year LL.M. programme. While adhering to
the curriculum mandated by the University of Mumbai, the college supplements academic learning with exclusive sessions, workshops, and expert-led lectures in diverse domains such as law, finance, and technology.
The faculty at Gopaldas Jhamatmal Advani Law College exemplifies academic excellence and professional expertise, fully complying with the standards set by the UGC and Bar Council of India. A majority of the educators hold distinguished qualifications, including NET/SET certifications and doctoral degrees in law. Some members are officially recognized as postgraduate teachers in law by the University of Mumbai, while others mentor doctoral candidates across various universities.
Their commitment to advancing legal scholarship is evident through active participation in research, with numerous publications in prestigious journals, presentations at national and international conferences, and involvement in faculty development initiatives.
A Cutting-Edge Campus
Boasting a fully air-conditioned campus, G.J. Advani Law College is known for its modern amenities including well-maintained classrooms, some equipped with smart technology and projectors, a dedicated moot court hall, and a computer laboratory facilitating advanced legal research for students and faculty alike. The well-stocked library houses over fourteen thousand volumes, along with e-resources, journals, periodicals, and access to databases such as Manupatra. Furthermore, thoughtfully planned facilities, including common rooms for both genders, a badminton hall, sports provisions, and drinking water stations on every floor, enhance student comfort and engagement.
Leading the Way in Legal Research
When asked about the college’s initiatives in advancing legal research and scholarly participation, Dr. Bindu Variath emphasized that GJALC has been a pioneer in this space. “We were the first law college in Mumbai to consistently organise national-level seminars,” she noted with pride. Over the years, the institution has hosted thought‑provoking events on themes ranging from women in transitional societies and the evolving landscape of corporate social responsibility, to social transformation and the status of vulnerable groups.
In recent years, the college has expanded its academic reach with multidisciplinary conferences, national and international, covering law, social sciences, and emerging research methodologies. These platforms often culminate in publications, such as the college’s Annual Law Journal and its first multidisciplinary journal featuring 75 research articles in 2024–25, both carrying official ISBN registration.
Echoing the college’s ethos, Dr. Variath remarked, “We actively encourage both students and faculty to publish, present, and participate in forums across the country and abroad. Financial support is extended wherever needed because research is at the heart of our academic mission.” This commitment is further evident in intercollegiate paper presentation competitions, faculty publications in peer-reviewed journals, and student participation in external research events.
Empowering Scholarship
Continuing to cement its position as a centre of academic and professional excellence, its students have consistently made their mark at the national and state levels. Abhishek Singh secured an impressive Rank 110 in the Bihar Public Service Commission Examination, joining the Department of Revenue and Land Reforms, Government of Bihar, as Revenue Officer. In competitive forums, GJALC students have claimed top prizes, including 1st position in the Client Counselling Competition at the country-level law fest Vidhiprabha, and the State-level Online Elocution Competition on “My Constitution – My Duties”.
Scholarly achievements have been equally noteworthy, winning the Best Research Paper award at LEX EQUITAS 2025 for work on digitisation and AI in governance, earning the Best Researcher title at the Law Tryst ’25 Moot Court, and securing top honours in prestigious national research paper competitions. Beyond law, students have demonstrated multi-faceted talents, ranging from bodybuilding at the national level and marathon running to literary accolades, published books, and even recognition in film festivals.
Shaping the Next Chapter
When asked about the college’s future roadmap, Dr. Bindu Variath outlined a clear vision aimed at strengthening GJALC’s academic and professional footprint. She shared that the institution is working towards establishing its own Ph.D. Research Centre, providing a platform for advanced scholarship and fostering a culture of original legal research. Plans are also in motion to fortify the placement cell, ensuring more robust industry linkages and wider career opportunities for graduating students.
Another significant milestone on the horizon is achieving NAAC accreditation, a step Dr. Variath described it as “essential for benchmarking our quality standards and institutional growth on a national scale.” As the principal concluded, “Our focus is on laying a stronger foundation today, so that our students, faculty, and the institution as a whole can reach even greater heights tomorrow.” With this forward-looking mission, GJALC continues to evolve while staying true to its legacy of producing competent, ethical, and well-rounded legal professionals.
