Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation (Deemed to be University) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Siddharth Raja as the new Executive Dean of Vinayaka Mission’s Law School (VMLS). His arrival marks an important step in strengthening VMRF’s commitment to building a future-ready law school that integrates academic rigour, professional relevance, and the unique advantages of a multidisciplinary university ecosystem.
With nearly three decades of distinguished legal practice in India and overseas, Siddharth brings a depth of experience that is rare in Indian legal education. Having set up and built four law firm practices, and worked across industries, geographies, and diverse corporate environments, he adds significant practitioner insight to the academic sphere. His expertise in advising leading companies, navigating complex legal issues, and contributing to India’s evolving corporate legal landscape positions him uniquely to guide VMLS into its next phase of growth.
Siddharth has also maintained a long-standing engagement with academia, having taught multiple courses and delivered invited lectures across leading law schools. His commitment to nurturing and empowering future legal professionals reflects a vision that is both socially grounded and professionally ambitious, shaping graduates who excel in their craft and remain deeply connected to the needs of society.
Reflecting on this new chapter, Mr. Siddharth Raja said: “I’m deeply energised by this opportunity to contribute to legal education in a meaningful way. Moving from corporate legal practice into academia is not a departure but a two-way corridor of learning. I look forward to helping build a law school where scholarship, practical insight, and professional purpose reinforce one another.”
Under his leadership, VMLS envisions a model of legal education that prepares students for a rapidly evolving profession, one shaped by globalisation, technology, artificial intelligence, and new forms of enterprise. The multidisciplinary strengths of VMRF, coupled with opportunities for research and innovation across domains, will allow VMLS students to gain exposure far beyond traditional legal training.
The University is also committed to strengthening pathways for entrepreneurship through the Ganesan Incubation and Entrepreneurship Centre (GIEC). As part of this vision, law students will be encouraged to explore emerging intersections between law, business, technology, and innovation, continuing a trend that Siddharth himself has witnessed among his students who have successfully transitioned into start-up founders.
