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With over a decade of experience in various areas of the law, was law a planned career path for you, and what inspired you to specialize in corporate law, particularly in the maritime and international trade sectors?
Law was always a calling for me; the discipline, the analytical rigor, and the opportunity to impact society resonated with my drive for meaningful work. My journey to specialize in corporate and maritime law, however, was shaped by my academic background and early exposure to international trade’s vast complexity. Earning my LL.M. in Maritime Law from the Indian Maritime University, where I graduated with a Silver Medal, gave me a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of maritime law. Corporate and international trade law present a unique set of challenges and rewards that only a global, multidisciplinary approach can address. This field offers a constant intellectual challenge and an opportunity to work at the intersection of law and global business, which I find immensely fulfilling.
What do you consider the most pressing legal challenges that companies in the shipping and maritime industries face today, especially in the context of cross-border trade?
Today, maritime companies are navigating a minefield of legal challenges, with compliance and risk management at the forefront. Companies face increasingly stringent environmental regulations—compliance with IMO standards on emissions, for instance, is now critical. Global trade tensions have also intensified the need for adaptable legal strategies, as tariffs, sanctions, and embargoes add layers of complexity to cross-border trade. Additionally, cybersecurity risks are an urgent concern as shipping operations become more digitized, making robust data protection policies and crisis management strategies essential. Having represented clients in international arbitration and cross-border disputes, I’ve seen firsthand how preparation and adaptability are key to meeting these multifaceted challenges.
Given the evolving nature of corporate governance in India, how do you advise shipping and maritime companies to navigate compliance with both Indian and international regulatory frameworks?
In today’s regulatory environment, I advise maritime companies to adopt a comprehensive compliance strategy that harmonizes Indian laws with international requirements. With my background in both Indian corporate law and international maritime regulations, I focus on creating frameworks that meet the stringent standards of bodies like the IMO while aligning with Indian regulatory mandates. Regular training and internal audits are invaluable for keeping teams aware of emerging compliance needs. It’s also critical for companies to build relationships with regulators and industry experts, as this fosters an environment of mutual understanding that aids in anticipating and preparing for regulatory changes.
You have extensive experience in international arbitration. Can you discuss a particularly complex international trade dispute that you’ve been involved in, and the strategies you used to achieve a favourable outcome for your client?
Well, there are many, but I’d like to share a notable case involving bunker fraud. This was issue with regards to the time charter party, where charterer hired a vessel on a six-month time charter, incurring losses exceeding million dollars due to severe underperformance (over consumption of fuel). Complicated by a penalty clause for early termination, the charterer sought expert guidance to mitigate potential legal risks.
Our investigation uncovered a Cappuccino bunker fraud conspiracy (cappuccino effect is a type of fuel fraud that occurs when compressed air is introduced into fuel delivery hose during bunkering) involving the ship management company, bunker supplier, and crew. We responded with strategic, multi-jurisdictional legal action:
– Initiated criminal proceedings against the supplier in its concerned jurisdiction.
– Filed parallel arbitration for damages against the owner and ship management company according to Charterparty Arbitration Clause.
– Secured the arrest of a sister vessel in admiralty to ensure payment.
These coordinated efforts across three jurisdictions prompted the respondent to settle, securing justice and recovering our client’s losses.
How do you balance your dual roles as a practicing lawyer and a faculty member teaching maritime law? What are the most common gaps in legal knowledge relating to maritime law that you encounter among students and professionals, and how do you address these in your teaching?
Balancing a legal practice with teaching at institutions like the Indian Maritime University and Narottam Morarjee Institute of Shipping requires a structured approach. Both roles feed into each other: my practice enriches my teaching, allowing me to bring real-world cases to the classroom, while teaching helps me stay sharp and analytical. One common gap I observe is a limited understanding of the global regulatory landscape—students often lack context on how international treaties like UNCLOS and IMO conventions interact with national laws. I address this by emphasizing a global perspective in my lectures, encouraging students to think beyond national boundaries, as maritime law is inherently international. This perspective prepares them to handle the legal and regulatory complexities they will encounter in practice.
Given your extensive experience in Corporate, Shipping/Maritime & International Trade Law, what motivated you to become a Partner at International Maritime Law Chambers, and what were the initial challenges you faced?
Joining International Maritime Law Chambers as a Partner was motivated by my commitment to advancing the field of maritime law in India and beyond. As a Partner, I wanted to not only lead complex cases but also mentor young lawyers interested in this specialized area. Initially, building a team that could meet the high standards we set for international arbitration and complex cross-border cases was challenging. Developing a reputation for excellence required establishing trust with clients, consistently delivering favorable outcomes, and positioning our firm as a trusted advisor in high-stakes matters. These early challenges have since translated into rewarding partnerships with clients and an exceptional team dedicated to the firm’s mission.
How do you balance your corporate law practice and your role as an educator and trainer with your personal life?
Balancing these responsibilities requires setting clear priorities and respecting my personal time. I believe in structured time management—segmenting the day for client work, research, teaching, and personal commitments. I am fortunate to have a supportive family and a team that enables me to manage my workload effectively. Maintaining a balanced life isn’t just about work—it includes time for self-reflection and rejuvenation, which are vital for sustaining the energy needed in a demanding profession. Ultimately, my roles as a partner, educator, and advocate are deeply fulfilling, as they allow me to make meaningful contributions while honoring my personal values and commitments.
What advice would you offer to young aspiring lawyers who aim to excel in the field of maritime law?
For aspiring maritime lawyers, a solid grounding in both Indian and international law is essential. I encourage young lawyers to invest time in understanding treaties, conventions, and the workings of regulatory bodies like the IMO, as maritime law is global by nature. Building expertise in arbitration and cross-border dispute resolution is equally critical, as maritime disputes often require these specialized skills. Finally, cultivate a mindset of continuous learning; maritime law evolves in response to global trade trends, and staying informed will differentiate you in this highly specialized field. As a faculty member, I always remind students that success in this field comes from both expertise and a commitment to lifelong learning.
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