The distinguish son of Jammu:

Harbans Lal Bhagotra – A life of service to people

- BY RAVI ROHMETRA

Jammu, often hailed as the "City of Temples," has always been a crucible of history and culture. Beyond its spiritual grandeur, this land has given rise to towering personalities-rulers, sages, thinkers, warriors, scientists, and reformers-who have left a lasting imprint on society.

Among the distinguished sons of this sacred soil was Harbans Lal Bhagotra popularly remembered as Judge Harbans Lal Bhagotra, a man whose life was devoted to justice, compassion, and public service.

Born on June 25, 1916, in an affluent Mahajan family in Mirpur (now in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir), Harbans Lal Bhagotra was destined for a life of meaningful contributions. His grandfather Kanshi Ram and father Lala Deewan Chand were respected businessmen of Mirpur. However, tragedy struck early when he lost his mother Ram Khetri at the tender age of one. Despite the personal loss and emotional challenges, young Harbans Lal showed remarkable perseverance in his pursuit of education.

He completed his matriculation from Government High School, Mirpur in 1931 and passed his FA (Intermediate) in 1933. At a time when education was rigorous and private tuition was rare, he pursued studies with determination. He joined Sanatan Dharma College in Lahore, graduating with a B.A. in 1935, and later pursued LLB from Law College, Lahore, completing it with distinction. His academic journey, though not marked by top rankings, remains a powerful example of how determination and sincerity can surpass academic hurdles.

After completing his legal studies, Bhagotra began practicing law under Pandit Roop Chand in Kotli.

Soon after, he established an independent legal practice in Bhimber, gaining practical experience in the functioning of the judiciary.