First Telugu woman to be appointed as US judge

Many on social media complemented her for her “absolute humbleness - Appreciate her connection with ROOTS”.

In a remarkable achievement, India born Jaya Badiga has made history by becoming the first Telugu woman to be appointed as a judge in the United States. She was recently appointed to the Sacramento County Superior Court in California. Badiga's heartfelt swearing-in speech in Telugu.

She began her speech in her mother tongue, Telugu, saying, “Mee andariki naa hrudayapurvaka swagatham,” which means "A heartfelt welcome to you all." She concluded with the Sanskrit mantra, “Asato Ma Sadgamaya,” translating to "Lead me from falsehood to truth," a testament to her deep cultural roots and respect for her heritage.

Many on social media complemented her for her “absolute humbleness - Appreciate her connection with ROOTS”.

Born in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Badiga's journey to this prestigious role is inspiring. Before her recent appointment, she served as a Commissioner at the Sacramento County Superior Court since 2022. Her appointment by California Governor Gavin Newsom fills the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Robert S. Lapham.