Important Legal Personalities Every CLAT Aspirant Should Know
- Himanshi Goyal
- May 27
- 7 min read
CLAT preparation isn’t just about solving practice papers or mugging up GK questions. It’s about understanding the spirit of law and connecting with the real-life heroes who made the Indian legal system what it is today. These legal personalities weren’t just lawyers or judges-they were change-makers, visionaries, and defenders of justice. They questioned the norms, interpreted laws with clarity, and stood for what was right, even when the path wasn’t easy.
Knowing about them will not only boost your legal knowledge for CLAT but also inspire you to think deeper and sharper-something that really matters when you’re aiming for the top law schools in India.
Let’s explore 8 legendary legal personalities whose names every CLAT aspirant should know-and remember.
1. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar - Architect of Indian Constitution
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is one name that echoes loudly in every discussion on law, rights, and justice in India. Known as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee and played a massive role in giving India its legal identity post-independence. A scholar from Columbia University and the London School of Economics, his academic brilliance matched his sharp legal mind. Ambedkar strongly believed in equality, liberty, and fraternity-values that form the very foundation of the Indian Constitution.
His contributions go beyond just writing the Constitution. He fought against caste discrimination, worked for Dalit rights, and laid the groundwork for a fairer society. From the Preamble to Fundamental Rights, his fingerprints are everywhere. In short, if you’re studying law, you can’t skip Ambedkar-he’s practically your legal grandfather.
CLAT Angle: Questions on constitutional development, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and social justice often trace back to Ambedkar. If you’re serious about cracking this exam, you must know how to prepare for CLAT in a way that includes a strong grasp of Ambedkar’s role in shaping India’s legal framework.
So next time you're revising Article 15 or the Directive Principles, just remember-you’re walking through the lanes Ambedkar paved.
2. Justice H.J. Kania - India’s First Chief Justice
Justice Harilal Jekisundas Kania made history by becoming the first Chief Justice of independent India in 1950, just as the Supreme Court of India came into being. He served during a time when the Constitution was new, democracy was fresh, and legal interpretations were at their earliest stages. One of his notable cases was A.K. Gopalan v. State of Madras, which focused on Article 21-the right to life and personal liberty.
Although his interpretation in this case was narrow (which was later expanded), it was still foundational in setting the tone for future debates around personal freedoms. Justice Kania also helped establish judicial independence and the credibility of the Supreme Court as the guardian of the Constitution. His quiet strength and deep understanding of law made him a pillar of India’s early legal system.
CLAT Angle: His name pops up in early constitutional cases and discussions about the establishment of the judiciary. Understanding the Gopalan case is crucial for topics like Article 21 and judicial review.
He may have been the first CJI, but he definitely didn’t set the bar low-he raised it from day one!
3. Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer - The People’s Judge
Justice Vaidyanathapuram Rama Iyer Krishna Iyer was one of the most progressive judges India has ever seen. Known for his socially sensitive approach, he believed law should serve the common people and protect their dignity. He was not just about technical legal points-his judgments had a soul. One of his famous contributions was in the Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India case, where he helped expand the meaning of Article 21.
For him, justice was not just a courtroom word-it was something that should reach even the poorest Indian. He also supported prison reforms, labour rights, and women’s empowerment. His language in court was poetic yet precise, and his judgments continue to be referenced for their humane reasoning.
CLAT Angle: His contribution to the interpretation of Article 21, PILs, and social justice issues makes him a key figure in legal reasoning and constitutional law.
Krishna Iyer proved that law can have a heart. If legal jargon confuses you, try reading one of his judgments-it feels like reading a story with morals.
4. Justice P.N. Bhagwati - The PIL Pioneer
Justice Prafullachandra Natwarlal Bhagwati is best known for bringing Public Interest Litigations (PILs) into mainstream Indian law. Before him, only those directly affected could go to court. But with his revolutionary ideas, even an ordinary citizen could file a case on behalf of someone else, as long as justice was at stake. He opened the doors of justice to the poor, the weak, and the voiceless.
His judgments often dealt with fundamental rights and human dignity. Under his leadership, the judiciary became more active in correcting wrongs and holding the government accountable. His most famous work includes expanding Article 21 and strengthening the concept of socio-economic justice in India.
CLAT Angle: PILs are a hot topic in both legal GK and current affairs. His name and judgments frequently appear in passages and objective questions-so make sure you stay updated on all details about CLAT 2026 to catch questions like these with ease.
So the next time you hear about a PIL filed on a social issue, remember-you have Justice Bhagwati to thank for it.
5. Fali S. Nariman - The Man of Integrity
Fali Sam Nariman is one of India’s most respected constitutional lawyers and jurists. Known for his ethical conduct, clarity in arguments, and deep understanding of constitutional values, Nariman has appeared in many landmark cases, including Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, which led to the Basic Structure Doctrine. He is admired not just for his knowledge, but also for refusing to take up cases that go against his principles.
He believes that the Constitution is not just a legal document, but a living guide to justice. Over the years, Nariman has written extensively on law and ethics and mentored countless young lawyers. His dedication to the rule of law has made him a symbol of what every lawyer should aim to be-competent, ethical, and courageous.
CLAT Angle: His name is closely associated with the Basic Structure Doctrine, a core concept in constitutional law, and often seen in comprehension passages and match-the-following questions.
If law is your game, Fali Nariman is the kind of player you want to learn from. His career proves that ethics and excellence can go hand in hand.
6. Soli Sorabjee - The Guardian of Free Speech
Soli Jehangir Sorabjee was another legal giant who served as the Attorney General of India and championed civil liberties throughout his career. A firm believer in the right to freedom of speech, Sorabjee argued several major cases that expanded the scope of Articles 19 and 21. He was also a defender of press freedom and individual liberty in times when such freedoms were under threat.
Internationally, he was part of the UN Human Rights Commission and worked to highlight India’s commitment to democratic values. His arguments were sharp, and his courtroom presence powerful. Sorabjee's love for jazz music and his light-hearted personality made him relatable even outside the court.
CLAT Angle: His name is linked to freedom of expression cases and constitutional interpretations of civil rights-topics that often appear in legal GK.
He believed in defending your right to speak-even if you had unpopular opinions. A valuable reminder when you're too scared to raise your hand in class!
7. Indira Jaising - The Torchbearer of Women’s Rights
Indira Jaising is a leading voice in gender justice and one of India’s most well-known women lawyers. She was the first woman appointed as Additional Solicitor General of India and has worked on countless cases relating to women’s rights, minority rights, and domestic violence. Her efforts were instrumental in drafting the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005.
One of her major victories came in Mary Roy v. State of Kerala, where she fought for equal inheritance rights for women. Her activism and legal work go hand in hand, and she has always emphasized the role of law in creating a just and equal society. Jaising continues to be an inspiration for young law students, especially women.
CLAT Angle: Women’s rights, gender equality, and legal reforms are recurring topics in CLAT’s GK and legal reasoning sections. Knowing her work adds great value.
She proves that even in a field dominated by men, a determined voice can echo loud and clear.
Do checkout: Tips to Crack the CLAT in First Attempt
8. Nani Palkhivala - The Constitutional Genius
Nani Ardeshir Palkhivala was a lawyer, economist, and public speaker rolled into one. Known for his courtroom brilliance, he became a central figure in constitutional law through his work in the Kesavananda Bharati case, where the Supreme Court declared that Parliament cannot alter the “basic structure” of the Constitution.
Palkhivala was not just a lawyer for his clients-he was a lawyer for the Constitution itself. His speeches and books made complex legal concepts easy to understand for the common man. He also played a major role in tax law and international arbitration, but it’s his contribution to saving democracy that makes him unforgettable.
CLAT Angle: The Basic Structure Doctrine is a must-know for every aspirant. Palkhivala’s arguments are often cited and referenced in comprehension and MCQ sections.
If there’s one man who could simplify the Constitution like a school textbook, it was Nani Palkhivala.
Final Thought: Learn Law from Legends
Studying these personalities isn’t about mugging up facts for your CLAT exam. It’s about understanding the people behind the legal principles you study. These legends made the law come alive, and their lives are filled with lessons of courage, clarity, and commitment. Their work continues to influence courtrooms, classrooms, and civil society.
Bonus Tip: For smart, focused prep, don’t forget to join online CLAT coaching where mentors can guide you through such legal legends, current affairs, and strategy-based preparation effectively.
The CLAT exam might have multiple choice questions, but the values these people stood for? Those are always the right answer.
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