At 46, this Kerala homemaker gets a law degree, enrolls as advocate: ‘I realised education gives dignity in society’

In a society that often dictates age as a limitation and labels homemakers as silent contributors behind closed doors, one woman in Kerala has rewritten the script. At the age of 46, Geetha Nair, a homemaker from Thiruvananthapuram, has broken barriers to earn her law degree and officially enroll as an advocate. Her inspiring story is not just about a degree—it’s a powerful reminder that education is a tool for empowerment, dignity, and transformation at any stage of life.

From Routine to Reinvention

For over two decades, Geetha lived a life many would describe as ordinary. She dedicated herself fully to managing her household, raising two children, and supporting her husband’s professional life. Like millions of women across India, she performed countless tasks with quiet efficiency and emotional strength—yet her role was often taken for granted.

“People respect you only when you have a professional identity,” Geetha said. “As a homemaker, your work is invisible. I always knew I had more to give and more to become.”

The Turning Point

The thought of returning to education had always lingered at the back of her mind. A fascination with the legal system, combined with a desire to help others—especially women in distress—drove her curiosity. But responsibilities at home and societal expectations kept her dream on hold.

It was only after her children grew older and became more independent that Geetha made a life-changing decision: to enroll in law school. At 41, she walked into her first class, nervous but determined. Her classmates were half her age. Her study materials felt foreign. But her motivation outweighed her fears.

A Degree Earned with Patience and Passion

Balancing books and domestic responsibilities wasn’t easy. Geetha often studied late into the night, completed assignments after cooking dinner, and revised legal cases while waiting at parent-teacher meetings. There were moments of self-doubt, but giving up was never an option.

Five years later, she proudly graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a local law college and passed the Bar Council exam on her first attempt. In early 2025, she officially enrolled as an advocate in the Kerala High Court.

“I felt like I had reclaimed my identity,” she said. “For the first time, I wasn’t just someone’s wife or someone’s mother. I was my own person.”

A Voice for the Voiceless

Now practicing law, Geetha has set her sights on advocating for causes close to her heart. She intends to specialize in domestic violence cases, women’s rights, and legal aid for marginalized women who often remain unheard in the justice system.

“Many women don’t even know their rights. I want to educate them and fight for them,” she shared. “Having lived that life myself, I understand their silence, their fear, and their dreams.”

Her empathy, lived experience, and maturity have already begun earning her respect within the legal community. Several senior advocates have praised her calm presence and keen understanding of emotional nuance in sensitive cases.

A Family’s Pride

Geetha’s journey has deeply impacted her family. Her daughter, now in college, often introduces her mother as her “biggest inspiration.” Her husband, initially unsure about her returning to studies, has become her strongest supporter.

“She proved to all of us that life doesn’t stop at 40. Watching her balance everything and still excel was humbling,” he said.

Breaking Stereotypes, One Step at a Time

In a society where women over 40 are often expected to slow down or retreat into domestic life, Geetha’s success challenges these norms. Her story is not just a personal victory—it’s a social statement.

Thousands of women across India, especially homemakers, often internalize the belief that their prime years are behind them. But Geetha’s determination shines a light on what’s possible when courage meets opportunity.

“Age is just a number,” she said. “It’s your mindset that truly defines your future.”

The Road Ahead

As she begins her legal career, Geetha hopes to inspire more women to step out of their comfort zones and pursue education, regardless of their age or background.

She also dreams of starting a free legal aid clinic for women in her community and possibly mentoring other second-career aspirants like herself.

“There are many Geethas out there, waiting for a sign. I want them to know—this is your sign. Start now. You won’t regret it,” she said with a warm smile.