- Centenary logo unveiled, archives dedicated to preserve GLS’s historic legacy
- CM links GLS Milestone with Iron Man’s 150th Birth Anniversary
- Mother Tongue education, value-based learning and nation-building emphasised
- Nanavati Highlights GLS legacy of producing CJIs, Supreme Court and High Court Judges
- Divine blessings, legal heritage and multi-generational commitment mark historic occasion
R MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, FEB 23
In a defining tribute to a century-long legacy of education and nation-building, Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel hailed Gujarat Law Society (GLS) as a “pillar of trust, discipline and national progress,” as he formally inaugurated its centenary year celebrations, unveiled the official centenary logo, and dedicated the GLS Archives to the nation at a grand ceremony held at the GLS Campus, Ellisbridge here on Monday
Founded in 1927 by visionaries including Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Ganesh Vasudev Mavlankar, GLS will complete 100 years in 2027. The unveiling of the centenary logo symbolised the institution’s enduring legacy and forward vision, while the inauguration of the GLS Archives created a permanent repository of rare documents, historic photographs and memorabilia chronicling GLS’s transformative contribution to education and the legal profession.
The ceremony began with the ceremonial welcome of the Chief Minister, followed by Vande Mataram and the National Anthem, setting a tone of reverence and national pride. The unveiling of the centenary logo marked the formal commencement of a year-long celebration honouring GLS’s extraordinary journey of academic excellence, leadership and public service.
In his keynote address, Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel praised GLS’s unmatched contribution to education, law and nation-building over nearly a century.
“It is a matter of immense pride and happiness that Gujarat Law Society is entering its centenary year at a historic time when the nation is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This coincidence makes the occasion even more significant, as GLS itself reflects the same spirit of nation-building, unity, discipline and service,” the Chief Minister said.
Highlighting Gujarat’s rise as a global technology and innovation destination, he added:
“Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Gujarat is moving forward with determination to become a semiconductor hub, strengthening India’s technological self-reliance. Institutions like GLS play a crucial role in preparing skilled, capable and value-driven youth who will contribute to this new era of innovation and national development.”
Emphasising the importance of linguistic and cultural foundations, Patel said: “Education in the mother tongue strengthens intellectual clarity, preserves cultural identity, and builds confidence among students. Institutions like GLS, which are rooted in values while embracing modern education, are vital for shaping responsible citizens.”
Reaffirming GLS’s role in national progress, he stated: “GLS is contributing substantially to the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by educating the youth and preparing them to play a meaningful role in nation building. Completing 100 years in education reflects the immense trust it has earned from society.”
Initiate ‘Catch the Rain’ programme: CM
Encouraging GLS to align its centenary initiatives with national priorities, he added: “The university should also take up awareness programmes such as ‘Catch the Rain’ during its centenary year, reinforcing the spirit of responsibility towards sustainable development.”
Sudhir Nanavati Invokes Divine Blessings, Highlights GLS’s Unmatched Legal Legacy
Following the Chief Minister’s address, Sudhir Nanavati, Executive Vice President of Gujarat Law Society, delivered a deeply reflective and inspiring speech, tracing GLS’s historic journey and its extraordinary contribution to India’s legal and academic landscape.
“With the blessings of Rian God, we move forward into our centenary year with humility, gratitude and renewed resolve to serve society and the nation,” Nanavati said, invoking divine grace as the guiding force behind GLS’s continued progress.
Highlighting GLS’s unparalleled legacy in shaping India’s legal fraternity, he noted that the institution has produced some of the country’s most distinguished legal luminaries.
“Many Chief Justices of India, judges of the Supreme Court, several High Court judges, and Solicitors General of India have been proud alumni of Gujarat Law Society institutions,” he said, underscoring GLS’s profound influence on India’s judicial system.
Nanavati also reflected on his own family’s deep and enduring association with the legal profession, symbolising GLS’s generational impact.
“Our family represents four generations in the legal profession, reflecting the enduring values, commitment and legacy that institutions like GLS have nurtured over decades,” he said.
He paid tribute to GLS’s founders, trustees, faculty, alumni and students, emphasising that their collective dedication transformed GLS from a visionary idea into one of Gujarat’s most respected multidisciplinary educational institutions.
Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of Gujarat Law Society, delivered the welcome address, describing the inauguration as “the beginning of a historic centenary year celebrating 100 years of excellence, resilience and relentless service.”
She outlined an ambitious calendar of centenary initiatives, including national and international academic conferences, publications, sports and cultural festivals, alumni engagement programmes, and community outreach initiatives designed to honour GLS’s legacy while inspiring future generations.
The ceremony concluded with reflections, a formal vote of thanks— marking not just the inauguration of a centenary year, but the beginning of GLS’s next chapter as a continuing force in nation-building.
As GLS approaches its landmark centenary in 2027, it stands as a symbol of trust, excellence and leadership — preserving its storied past while shaping India’s future through education, innovation and service.
