The traditional view suggests that students attend law school to learn to think like lawyers. While adopting a lawyer’s mindset is crucial for becoming an effective legal professional, it is equally important to cultivate leadership skills among law students. To nurture these skills, law schools need leaders who can guide and shape future legal professionals into both skilled lawyers and capable leaders. In this context, Prof. (Dr.) C. Basavaraju is a notable figure. As the Vice Chancellor of Karnataka State Law University, his extensive commitment to legal education has earned him a place among India’s 25 Most Inspiring Education Leaders of 2024.
From Challenges to Triumphs
Born in a small village in Nanjangud Taluk, Mysore district, he grew up in poverty, with his father working as a laborer in a railway workshop and his mother a housewife. Despite the challenges of a financially constrained upbringing and the lack of formal education in his family, Prof. Basavaraju was determined to pursue education.
He completed his Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Mysore in 1984, followed by a Master’s degree in the same field in 1986, despite having been educated in Kannada medium during his primary years. His passion for learning led him to study law from University of Mysore, where he earned his LL.B. degree in 1989 and subsequently an LL.M. degree with distinction in 1992, specializing in Constitutional Law and Administrative Law.
Prof. Basavaraju’s academic journey continued with a Ph.D. from the University of Mysore in 2002, focusing on social justice with special reference to backward classes under the Indian Constitution. Although he initially aspired to be an English teacher, his career took a pivotal turn towards law education. Eventually starting his teaching career at the National Law School of India University, Bangalore, in 1995.
He later moved to the Karnataka University, Dharwad, as a permanent lecturer and then to his alma mater, the University of Mysore, where he served in various capacities, including Lecturer, Reader, Professor of Law, and Dean of the Faculty of Law. Prof. Basavaraju’s extensive experience includes serving on numerous academic and statutory bodies, including the Academic Council and Syndicate of the University of Mysore.
In addition to his roles in teaching and administration, he has also held positions such as Registrar and Acting Chancellor of the University of Mysore.
As the Vice Chancellor of KSLU
Under Prof. (Dr.) C. Basavaraju’s leadership, Karnataka State Law University (KSLU) has witnessed significant advancements through various initiatives and projects. He has spearheaded numerous programs encouraging both faculty and students to engage in research across diverse fields. These research projects, which range from environmental studies to human rights and intellectual property rights, aim to produce tangible outcomes that can be applied at different levels.
Additionally, Prof. Basavaraju emphasizes the importance of providing students with opportunities to develop their talents and showcase their skills beyond academics. By organizing a range of activities—including cultural and sports events—he fosters an environment that inspires commitment, integrity, and resilience in students.
On a Personal Note
Beyond his professional pursuits, Prof. (Dr.) C. Basavaraju has a rich array of hobbies and interests that extend beyond his professional life. An avid reader, he enjoys delving into various genres, including English literature, poetry, sonnets, short stories, and novels. This love for reading has become a core part of his daily routine. In addition to his reading habits, Prof. Basavaraju engages in writing, producing articles, short stories, and even small novels. He also has a passion for music, not only listening to it but actively learning and singing as well.
