Kritika Seth is a lawyer who has been working in the field of Intellectual Property, Media and Entertainment laws. In an interview with our Campus Ambassador Purvi Varma, she discusses her journey into the field of media law, starting her own law firm (Victoriam Legalis), and a whole lot more.

When and what led you to the world of entertainment and media law?

Since my childhood, I was always drawn towards my dream of making a change in the society and that’s when I knew that I wanted to be lawyer. It’s just something I knew I had to do. I was introduced to the world of Media and Entertainment after I started my law college and began my exploration of everything Law.

What fascinated me most about this field was the fact that the whole world of art and creativity came alive with the aspects of Law. I found it interesting as it was associated with everything I could relate to everyday.

Can you briefly explain what your day as a media and entertainment lawyer look like?

Well, my day usually is a beautiful blend of meetings, interactions, negotiations and progress. Media and Entertainment is not just a practice but it is what we do every moment. It is growing and evolving at every step of the way. My love and passion for the subject keeps me hooked to my laptop however, it is all very entertaining and fun.

"The show must go on" is a commonly used phrase in association with the entertainment sector for its undeterred growth against all odds that impact most industries. How conducive do you think is the time to be practicing as an entertainment lawyer in India?

It is indeed a very inspiring phrase. I have seen the industry grow every day and I feel that I have been fortunate to have been part of its evolution and progress. These are actually very exciting times to be a part of this industry and practice.

The growing awareness and the unfettered growth in technology is creating such a wonderful environment for Media and Entertainment Lawyers today. I believe this to be the ideal time to step in and really make a difference in the field.

This is one field which is ever growing and expanding. The entertainment world is made for the masses, and its reach is magnificent thus creating space for every lawyer in this field.

Having worked as an in-house counsel as well as a partner in a leading law firm, could you share the highlights and key differences between your experiences? What in your view should be the deciding factor for an aspiring lawyer that needs to make a choice between the two?

It has been a delightful journey getting where I am today. I cannot call it a simple one however, it has been such a great process to be learning and growing everyday. I believe that each practice has its own charm.

Litigation for me was what gave me the skillset and confidence to dig deep into the subject before setting out my argument and in-house practice was all about responsibility and application of the depth of the subject.

I feel that both the aspects of practice combined together makes one a unique lawyer. It is all about learning the basic and then enhancing the subject deeper each day.

How difficult do you think is starting one’s own law firm in India and do you think there is a "perfect time" to do so? Do you mind sharing some of your own experiences and learnings?

Wow, this does feel so emotional to answer. I was very sure of the fact that someday I will have my own practice and today I finally do. I won’t say it is a cake walk but then it is worth fighting for.

The journey to reach here was filled with betrayals, distrust, lies, and what not.

But one thing that remained constant through this was my love and passion for the subject and the profession. I believe if there is a will there definitely can be a way. All we have to do is be receptive to that fact there is work for all and that we must patiently wait for it come our way.

Nothing more matter but the output and end result. I believe in delivery and not making myself a brand. I want my work to be valued and my clients to be happy.

Simple.

So far that is working for me and I believe it will continue to do so.

What advice would you like to give to law students and young lawyers who want to venture into entertainment and media laws?

Life is not worth stressing over the minuscule issues such as how many holidays one gets, how much money one earns, etc. Though these are all very relevant aspects of a professional life, but the real growth and success comes from the experience of actually learning.

The passion to do your best and to understand the depth of your field is what matters in the long run.

Trust me when I say this, there is absolutely no easy way to fulfil your dreams- we have to struggle, fall, learn, fall again and just keep working hard no matter where or who we become. Believe me, money, holidays, etc. all will fall right into your lap when you feel and believe in what you do.

It is important to understand what media and entertainment actually entails. It is not just about appropriate sections and acts, but about experiencing the business of the clients each day.

It is not one act but the art of “Law” as an overall subject creating new avenues everyday. Media and Entertainment is about passion and dedication. It’s a process and a journey of growth and exploration but not a “job”.