The legal fraternity in country witnessed the end of an era as Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave announced his decision to step away from active legal practice after 48 eventful years at the Bar on Sunday, July 13. His message, shared quietly through WhatsApp, belied the thunderous impact he has had on our country’s jurisprudence and public discourse. As Dave bows out, his absence will leave an irreplaceable void in courtrooms where his passionate advocacy and fearless voice long served as a conscience of the legal profession. Born into a family steeped in the law—his father, Justice C.K. Thakker, was a respected judge of the Supreme Court—Dave was destined to engage with the legal system. But he didn’t merely follow in footsteps; he charted his own course. Over nearly five decades, he emerged as one of India’s most formidable constitutional lawyers, renowned for his eloquence, clarity of thought, and moral courage. Dave’s legal brilliance was matched by his unwavering commitment to justice and democratic values. Whether arguing for civil liberties, defending institutions from executive overreach, or challenging constitutional violations, Dave’s presence in court was not just about legal interpretation—it was a moral performance. He stood out particularly during tumultuous political times, often representing causes that others were too timid to touch. His legal acumen came with a sense of deep personal integrity, which earned him both admiration and adversaries. As President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, Dave did not shy away from calling out what he saw as institutional failures. He was a rare voice who spoke truth to power—even if it meant standing alone. His sharp criticism of judicial appointments, selective listing of cases, and perceived lack of transparency in the higher judiciary set him apart as a principled crusader. Dave viewed the legal system as a tool for change, not a mere career. Yet, beyond the courtroom drama and public addresses, Dushyant Dave was a deeply introspective man. His decision to quit, shortly after turning 70, reflects a sense of completeness—a graceful exit on his own terms. “Glorious years,” he called them, and indeed, they were. In a time when the legal profession is increasingly being driven by commercial interests, Dave’s exit is a moment for reflection. His legacy lies not only in landmark judgments and powerful arguments but in the courage he showed by aligning his practice with his principles. As he walks away from the Bar, Dushyant Dave leaves behind not just a career, but a calling—a reminder of what the law can and should be.