1. Kindly introduce yourself and share what inspired you to pursue a career in law?
Allow me to introduce myself: I am Pranav Gupta, and I hail from the modest town of Akbarpur, nestled near the bustling city of Kanpur in the State of Uttar Pradesh. I come from humble beginnings, with my father serving as the principal of a government school. As the first member of my family to embark on the path of law, my journey has been one shaped by perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the power of knowledge.
My early education was rooted in the small yet vibrant towns of Akbarpur and Kanpur, where I laid the foundation for my future. However, it was when I enrolled in law school that I truly set my sights on a calling that would define my life’s purpose.
From a tender age, I was captivated by the stories of historical figures whose legacies have shaped the world. The lives of Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru, Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Sardar Patel, Abraham Lincoln, and Barack Obama — all of whom were lawyers — have always served as a beacon of inspiration for me. Their work not only transformed their countries but also left an indelible mark on the global stage. Their commitment to justice, equality, and freedom stirred within me a deep desire to follow in their footsteps.
It was these very ideals that ignited within me a spark — a burning passion to explore the legal profession, and, ultimately, to see myself as a lawyer one day. That spark, nurtured by my upbringing and fuelled by the wisdom of these great figures, continues to drive me forward on this remarkable journey.
2. Could you elaborate on your undergraduate education at Symbiosis International University? You were recognised as a meritorious student while also being active in co-curricular activities. How did you manage to excel in both areas?
Throughout my academic journey, I was never the standout student. Instead, I was the one who consistently worked diligently, striving to master every subject, often finding myself chasing excellence rather than being naturally gifted. However, everything changed when I secured admission to Symbiosis Law School. From that moment, the clarity in my mind was undeniable: I had chosen my path, and there was no turning back. I knew, without a doubt, that I was stepping onto a road where I would have no godfather or guiding hand to assist me. The responsibility was mine alone.
In those formative five years at law school, I immersed myself wholeheartedly in my studies and extracurricular pursuits. I completed more than 15 internships, many of which I undertook outside of regular college hours from my second year onward. This hands-on experience proved invaluable, offering me real-world insights that complemented my academic learning.
I was also privileged to be a member of the Research and Publication Department, where I had the opportunity to explore multiple research papers and participate in a myriad of conferences and seminars. Each of these opportunities helped me grow, challenging me to think critically and refining my understanding of the legal field.
One individual whose guidance was instrumental during my time at law school was Mr C.J. Rawandale, the esteemed Director of Symbiosis Law School. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence created an environment that pushed students like me to aspire higher. His encouragement and support were invaluable, providing the motivation and confidence needed to persevere through the most challenging moments. Under his direction, the school became not only a place of learning but a foundation upon which I could build my future.
The driving force behind my relentless pursuit of knowledge and experience was always clear: I had chosen this path. My dream was to become a successful litigator, and I understood that it was only through my own grit, effort, and determination that I would carve out my own legacy. Every late night, every challenge, and every moment of struggle was merely a stepping stone towards my ultimate goal. It was my path to forge, and I was resolute in my determination to succeed.
3. Your practice in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Law has been commendable. At what point during your academic journey did you decide to focus on this branch of law as the foundation of your career?
From the outset of my legal journey, I found myself deeply drawn to the realm of intellectual property rights (IPR). However, it was during my early years at law school that my interests began to evolve, largely due to the influence of my maternal uncle, a builder by profession. He played a pivotal role in introducing me to the intricate workings of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC) and often involved me in research and cases related to it. His mentorship became the cornerstone of my decision to specialise in IBC and real estate law.
As I delved deeper into this area, my exposure to real-world legal challenges grew significantly. My time at IVY Law Offices was particularly transformative, as I had the opportunity to engage with high-profile insolvency matters, including working on cases involving Unitech and several other prominent real estate firms. This hands-on experience in IBC and real estate litigation not only sharpened my legal acumen but also reinforced my passion for this dynamic field.
It was during this period that I realised I wanted to expand my knowledge, particularly in the advisory sector of IBC. The prospect of working closely with industry leaders became an exciting new chapter in my journey. I was fortunate enough to be given the rare opportunity to work with none other than Mr Sumant Batra, one of India’s foremost authorities in IBC. Under his guidance, I gained invaluable insights into the complexities of insolvency law. More than just a learning experience, it was an honour to be associated with such a respected name in the industry. It fills me with immense pride to refer to myself as one of his “horses from the stallions of Mr Sumant Batra” a term I cherish as a mark of distinction. The knowledge I gained from this association continues to shape my approach to legal practice and fuels my ambition to excel further in the field of IBC and real estate law.
4. You have had the opportunity to work and train under eminent Senior Advocates of the country, including Mr Salman Khurshid, Mr K.T.S. Tulsi, and Mr Vivek Tankha. How has working under their guidance influenced your career?
Working with Salman Sir has always been a truly exceptional experience for me. His mentorship and guidance left an indelible mark on my professional journey. During my internship, his associates recognised my dedication and hard work, and as a result, I was entrusted with one of his personal matters. This involvement was not just a task but an opportunity to prove my commitment, and I was honoured when I was asked to remain in touch even after my internship, as I had become so deeply engaged in the matter.
Equally enriching was the privilege of working with two distinguished Members of Parliament from the Rajya Sabha — Mr K.T.S. Tulsi and Mr Vivek Tankha. This opportunity allowed me to immerse myself in policy-related work, as well as to delve into constitutional matters that profoundly shaped my understanding of the law at its highest levels. Mr Tulsi and his wife welcomed me with remarkable generosity and warmth, treating me with the same respect whether I was an intern or an associate. Their kindness and openness made a lasting impression, as it was rare to find such humility and dedication in such esteemed figures.
Being trained under the finest legal and political minds of the country was, without a doubt, a source of immense inspiration. It instilled within me the ambition to aim higher, to strive not for mediocrity but for greatness. Working alongside such distinguished professionals gave me the drive to pursue not just any career, but one that would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the legal and political fabric of this nation. Their example fuels my own aspirations, reminding me that there is always room to grow and achieve more, and that settling for less is never an option.
5. You serve as the Legal Head and Advisor to Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) and several other prominent companies. Could you share your experience in this role? What skillset do you believe one must develop to excel in the corporate legal field?
From the very outset of my legal career, I aspired to be an independent lawyer — one who could establish a reputation based on expertise, dedication, and integrity. My growing involvement in real estate law quickly attracted the attention of several prominent players in the industry, who sought my guidance on both advisory and litigation matters. As a result, I now have the privilege of advising more than a dozen builders independently, assisting them in navigating the complexities of real estate law and providing strategic counsel on key legal challenges.
One of the most significant milestones of my career has been my association with Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI). To be entrusted with advising such an esteemed association — comprising the builders and developers who drive the nation’s economic growth and infrastructure development — is both a privilege and a source of immense pride. These builders are not only shaping the country’s skyline but are also central to its overall development, and to be part of their legal journey is an honour I hold dearly.
In my role as an advisor to CREDAI, I have handled high-stakes cases worth billions of rupees, appearing before the High Court and the Supreme Court of India. The responsibility of managing such significant legal matters has been a deeply motivating experience, reinforcing my dedication to providing high-quality legal counsel.
For me, gaining an in-depth understanding of both real estate law and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) has been crucial in establishing myself as a trusted advisor to both CREDAI and a growing list of independent builders. The knowledge I have acquired and the expertise I have honed in these fields have enabled me to offer effective solutions, strategic advice, and robust litigation support. The trust and confidence placed in me by my clients continue to motivate me to raise the bar in my practice, with the aim of making a lasting contribution to the nation’s real estate sector.
6. From being an associate at IVY Law Office and Kesar Dass B & Associates to becoming the Managing Partner at PG Law Offices, what challenges have you faced throughout your professional journey?
The journey from my early days at IVY Law Offices and Kesar Dass B & Associates to becoming the Managing Partner at PG Law Offices has been far from a cakewalk. As a first-generation lawyer, my path has been distinctly different from that of many of my peers, many of whom come from families with established legacies in the legal profession — second and third-generation lawyers, children of Judges, bureaucrats, and even politicians. For them, the road to success was often paved with inherited connections and a certain level of privilege. For me, however, the journey to establishing myself as the Managing Partner of PG Law Offices was a unique and challenging one, marked by the absence of such advantages.
This lack of a privileged background could have been seen as a hurdle, but in truth, it has always served as a powerful motivator. I refused to let it define me. Instead, it pushed me to work harder, think smarter, and elevate myself each day in terms of knowledge, networking, and perseverance. I realised early on that success would not come overnight, it would come through continuous learning, building meaningful connections, and putting in the effort day after day.
In this pursuit, I have always emphasised to my associates and interns the importance of networking and forging strong relationships during their time in law school. Hard work is undeniably crucial, but it is just one part of the equation. The true key to becoming a successful lawyer lies in building a network of positive, like-minded individuals who can offer support, guidance, and opportunities when needed. I believe that surrounding oneself with the right people can be just as transformative as honing one’s legal skills.
Looking back, the challenges I faced, the absence of a legacy to lean on, and the need to create my own path have all been formative experiences. They shaped my approach to law, taught me resilience, and ultimately led me to the position I hold today.
7. During your time in law school and throughout your legal practice, you have worked on significant cases such as Monsanto Technology LLC v. Nuziveedu Seeds Ltd.1, AgustaWestland case, and estate assignments involving companies like Unitech Limited, Entertainment City Limited, H&M, Kwality Ltd. and Amtek Auto. What has been your most memorable experience in the field of litigation?
Every significant case I have handled has been a remarkable learning experience, each contributing to my growth and understanding of the legal landscape. Some of these cases were politically charged, others involved high-stakes intellectual property rights (IPR) matters, each offering its own unique challenges. However, it was the real turning point in my career that came with my involvement in high-profile Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) cases such as Unitech, ECL, Amtek, and Jaypee that truly shaped my professional identity.
These cases were not just about litigation, they were transformative experiences that allowed me to discover my true calling. I found myself drawn deeply into real estate litigation, particularly in the domains of IBC, arbitration, and advisory work. The existing connections I had cultivated over the years, combined with my growing inclination towards these areas of law, made this field feel like the natural stage for me. Real estate litigation became not just an area of expertise but a realm where I felt both capable and excited to continue exploring.
With each new assignment, my passion for real estate litigation only deepened. I realised that the work I was doing in IBC space was not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply impactful, as it had the potential to shape the future of the real estate sector. It was through these cases that I truly understood my place in the legal world — an advisor and litigator who could navigate the complexities of insolvency, real estate, and arbitration with a unique understanding and determination.
As I continue to grow in this field, I am motivated each day by the opportunity to take on new challenges, knowing that every case brings with it a chance to deepen my expertise and contribute meaningfully to the development of India’s real estate and insolvency landscape.
8. Our readers include law students and aspirants aiming to begin a career in law. What advice would you offer to them as they embark on their journey?
To be truly honest, I firmly believe that building strong connections, working relentlessly during your time in law school, and dedicating yourself to internships is key to setting the foundation for a successful legal career. Engaging in running internships, dedicating time to writing extensively on legal issues, and staying updated with the latest case developments are essential practices for any law student. These habits not only sharpen your legal skills but also allow you to stay ahead in a field that is constantly evolving.
To young lawyers, much like myself, I would offer the same advice: work smart and find the right environment where you truly belong. Understanding your own strengths and talents is crucial, and recognising when and where to apply them is a game-changer. Use your abilities strategically at the right stage to make the most of every opportunity.
It is also important to remember that in the world of litigation, chasing money should never be your primary focus. If you aim to build a name for yourself, it is your dedication, resilience, and commitment to the craft that will ultimately bring you success and recognition. Stand strong, put in the hard work, and remain patient. Success, fame, and a lasting reputation will follow those who persevere, not those who seek shortcuts. It is about consistently proving your worth through expertise and integrity, and that, I believe, is the true path to lasting achievement in the legal world.
