Swethaa Ballakrishnen, a sociolegal scholar and assistant professor at UC Irvine, discusses her book on gender dynamics in India’s elite law firms. She reveals how structural factors create unexpected gender parity in a male-dominated industry. The conversation explores the complex interplay of socio-economic backgrounds, family dynamics, and changing perceptions of work. Ballakrishnen challenges notions of intentionality in feminism, questioning whether unintentional progress can still be deemed feminist. Intriguing insights abound on navigating gender in India’s professional landscapes.

Swethaa Ballakrishnen, an Assistant professor of law at UC Irvine, explores the paradox of gender parity in elite Indian law firms. Despite women constituting less than 10% of lawyers in India, they thrive in prestigious firms due to unique structural factors. Ballakrishnen reveals how social dynamics and historical contexts create these unexpected egalitarian outcomes. She also discusses the complexities of navigating gender biases and challenges women face in law and consulting, highlighting the need for nuanced interpretations in feminist discourse.

Swethaa Ballakrishnen, an Assistant Professor of Law and a sociolegal scholar at UC Irvine, delves into the intriguing phenomenon of gender parity among India's elite professional circles. She discusses how the elite legal firms, despite being male-dominated, offer a surprising representation of women. Ballakrishnen explores the unexpected mechanisms behind this 'accidental feminism'—from gendered socialization to family support—contrasting it with women's struggles in consulting. Her insights challenge traditional narratives about progress and highlight the complexities of achieving real equality.