ZOYA, from the house of TATA, celebrates ‘Finely Crafted Journeys’ with co-founder of CLPR

ZOYA, the exquisite diamond boutique from the house of TATA, presents ‘Finely Crafted Journeys’ — featuring conversations with women achievers whose creativity and commitment to their craft have created something truly distinctive. ZOYA’s muse is Jayna Kothari, co-founder of the Centre for Law and Policy Research (CLPR) and senior advocate.

Excerpts from the interview: What inspired you to pursue your craft?
The need to bring about positive social change inspired my craft as a constitutional law litigator. My inspiration has been people at the grassroots, community workers and activists who have been tirelessly fighting for rights of marginalised communities. They inspire me to use the law to improve the lives of people.

What does creativity mean to you?

Creativity means finding new and innovative ways when the path ahead is completely closed. Creativity is being able to express one’s ideas and convey your viewpoints to others and to make the other person see it the way you want them to see it. My work as a senior counsel requires me to be creative every day to ensure that I get the court to see my client’s point of view and to make an inroad in the law even when there is none.

What do you enjoy most about your craft?
As a lawyer and a constitution defender, I get the chance to take up new issues every day, meet amazing people and learn about their life, work and get to intellectually invest myself in new and emerging developments in law. Every day is different and brings new and exciting challenges. Also, nothing can match the satisfaction one gets when you see your work bring about real change on the ground such as when Section 377 was decriminalised. This is when you feel that you can make a difference.

ZOYA and you:
ZOYA is a brand that is aimed at creative, dynamic and fearless women who have carved a path out of the ordinary. My journey has been similar in the legal world, which is a very male-dominated profession, and I have tried to make my place in the legal profession by doing public interest and human rights work, which is not the norm. I think this is what ZOYA stands for in its pieces and designs, which are all about breaking boundaries and barriers.