A moment of pride for the Telugu heartland. Jaya Badiga, an accomplished legal professional, has made history by becoming the first Telugu woman to b
A moment of pride for the Telugu heartland. Jaya Badiga, an accomplished legal professional, has made history by becoming the first Telugu woman to be appointed as a judge in the United States. Her recent appointment to the Sacramento County Superior Court in California is a remarkable achievement. Born in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Badiga has an inspiring journey that led her to this prestigious role.
Before her appointment as a judge, she served as a commissioner at the Sacramento County Superior Court since 2022. Her expertise lies in family law, and she is a certified family law specialist with over a decade of experience in this field. Badiga’s commitment to serving the community with dedication and expertise is evident throughout her professional journey.
Her academic background is equally impressive. She holds a Juris Doctor degree from the Santa Clara University School of Law and a Master of Arts degree in International Relations and International Communications from Boston University. These qualifications reflect her dedication to justice and public service. During her swearing-in ceremony, Jaya Badiga delivered a heartfelt speech in her mother tongue, Telugu. She began by saying, “Mee andariki naa hrudayapurvaka swagatham,” which translates to “A heartfelt welcome to you all.” Her ability to blend her professional achievements with her cultural heritage resonated with many, especially within the Telugu community.
In addition to Telugu, she concluded her speech with the Sanskrit mantra, “Asato Ma Sadgamaya,” which translates to “Lead me from falsehood to truth.” This choice reflects her deep cultural roots and respect for her heritage. Jaya Badiga’s appointment has been celebrated widely, and her inspiring journey serves as a beacon of pride and connection for many.
Separately, another significant judicial appointment was made by Governor Newsom: Raj Singh Badhesha, who became the first Sikh judge in California, was appointed to the Fresno County Superior Court. These appointments highlight the diversity and inclusivity within the US judiciary system.
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