Justice Anand Venkatesh makes his literary debut in Madurai

“Judges are ordinary human beings who require a dedicated space to articulate their observations and experiences within society,” remarked Madras High Court Judge Justice N. Anand Venkatesh.

Speaking at the launch of his book, ‘Life, Law and Literature – Reflections of a Judge,’ held on Saturday at the Kalaignar Centenary Library Hall, the Justice shared that the work was born out of a need to soothe his own internal restlessness.

He emphasised that the collection was entirely detached from his judicial office’s authority or the privileges he holds.

“With every essay I completed, I felt a weight lift from my soul, much like a bird shedding feathers as it soars through the sky,” he reflected.

He highlighted the inseparable bond between the legal system and the community. He noted that society cannot operate in isolation from the law, nor can the law be effectively distanced from society.

“When law, society, and literature converge, a profound understanding of all three emerges, ultimately enriching public life,” he observed.

Urging readers to look beyond formal literary style, he noted, “Do not seek literary elegance here; seek the beating human heart within these pages.”

Justice Venkatesh described the book as a product of personal alchemy, adding, “I cannot say if this book will transform society, but just as science shows that coal becomes a diamond through change, this book represents my own transformation.”

Madras High Court Judge Justice L. Victoria Gowri expressed her delight that such a significant literary event was held in Madurai rather than a metropolitan hub like Chennai.

Drawing a parallel to UNESCO’s recognition of Kozhikode, she remarked, “Madurai signifies Madhuram (sweetness). If any city in Tamil Nadu embodies literary excellence, it is Madurai, the historic cradle of Sangam Tamil.”

She praised the 50-essay compilation for spanning law, psychology, spirituality, and music. Quoting the author’s view on solitude as a source of strength, she compared his perspective on life to music: “True music exists in the silence between the notes. Similarly, the Justice views his court and home as peaceful ashrams, proving that our lives are harmonized by the melodies surrounding us.”

Former Chief Secretary V. Irai Anbu lauded the book’s breadth, noting it covers everything from science and spirituality to love and happiness.

“Justice’s exploration of complex, uncharted themes serves as an invaluable lesson for legal professionals and students alike. The author’s insightful dive into the professional stress faced by doctors, judges, and those in uniform is very important,” he noted.

Tamil scholar Solomon Pappaiah, Madurai Bench of Madras High Court Bar Association President Isaac Mohanlal, and State President of the Indian Association of Lawyers K. Samidurai, among others, delivered speech during the event.