Soli Sorabjee was a champion of freedom of speech and expression. He defended freedom of the press in several landmark cases in the Supreme Court of India and was instrumental in revoking censorship orders and bans on publications. He was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan award, the second-highest civilian award in India, in March 2002 for his defence of freedom of speech and the protection of human rights. Sorabjee was born in Bombay on March 9, 1930. He studied at Bharda New High School, Mumbai and at St Xavier’s College, Mumbai, followed by a degree in Law from the Government Law College. He was twice appointed as the Attorney-General of India. He had a fantastic memory, even in his 80s; every case was still fresh in his mind, and he remembered them by their clients' first names. Sorabjee was known for his humour and love for jazz music. The country needs more Solis given the state of the nation today.
