Build a Temple of Justice, Not a Seven-Star Hotel,” CJI Gavai Advises Architect at Bombay High Court Foundation Ceremony

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Mumbai: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan R. Gavai on Wednesday gave a firm yet meaningful message during the foundation-laying ceremony of the new Bombay High Court building in Mumbai. Addressing the gathering, the CJI advised the project’s architect Hafeez Contractor to design the new complex with dignity and simplicity, not with luxury and grandeur befitting a hotel.

“This is not to be a seven-star hotel,” CJI Gavai remarked. “It must be a temple of justice. I read in the media that each pair of judges will share a lift in the new building. Let me make it clear—judges are not feudal lords. Whether a trial court judge or a Supreme Court judge, all of us are here to serve the people. The building may be magnificent, but it should reflect humility, not extravagance.”

₹4,217 Crore Project on 30 Acres of Land

Initially estimated at ₹3,750 crore, the project’s cost has now risen to ₹4,217 crore. The Maharashtra government has allotted 30 acres of land, of which 15 acres have already been handed over; the remaining will be provided by March 2026.

The foundation ceremony took place in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Minister Shivendrasinh Raje Bhosale, and Bombay High Court Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya.

Designed by Renowned Architect Hafeez Contractor

The new High Court complex is being designed by Hafeez Contractor, one of India’s most prominent architects. Located in Bandra Government Colony along the Western Express Highway, the project will be one of the largest judicial infrastructures in the country.

The building—equivalent in size to about six Oval Maidans—will house 75 courtrooms along with modern facilities for lawyers, litigants, and judicial staff.

While social media had been abuzz over the project’s grandeur, CJI Gavai’s message has struck a powerful chord, reminding all involved that the soul of the judiciary lies in service, not splendor.

(Photo Caption: Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai performing the foundation ceremony of the new Bombay High Court complex in Mumbai.)