Sushila Karki Biography 2025 – Age, Family, Career, Net Worth & Untold Facts
Sushila Karki is a renowned Nepali lawyer, judge, and academic who made history as the first female Chief Justice of Nepal’s Supreme Court. Known for her integrity and groundbreaking judgments, she played a pivotal role in strengthening Nepal’s judiciary. Her journey from a law student to the country’s top judicial post serves as an inspiring story of perseverance and leadership.

Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Sushila Karki |
Profession / Occupation | Judge, Lawyer, Academic |
Birth Date | June 7, 1952 |
Age (as of 2025) | 73 years |
Birth Place | Biratnagar, Nepal |
Nationality | Nepali |
Famous For | First female Chief Justice of Nepal |
Known For | Legal reforms, judicial independence |
Ethnicity | South Asian (Nepali) |
Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
Height & Weight | 5 ft 4 in (approx.), 60 kg (approx.) |
Hair Color | Black (with grey) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Education | Tribhuvan University (LL.B., M.A. Political Science); Banaras Hindu University (LL.M.) |
Religion | Hinduism |
Marital Status / Spouse | Married to Durga Subedi (Professor, Tribhuvan University) |
Children | Not publicly disclosed |
Relatives | Supportive extended family |
Hobbies | Reading, writing, legal research |
Employer / Organization | Supreme Court of Nepal |
Years Active | 1975–2017 |
Net Worth (Estimated) | $1–3 million |
Early Life & Education
Sushila Karki was born on June 7, 1952, in Biratnagar, Nepal, into a middle-class family that valued education. She pursued her early studies locally before enrolling at Tribhuvan University, where she completed her Bachelor of Law (LL.B.) and Master’s degree in Political Science. Later, she furthered her education with an LL.M. from Banaras Hindu University, India.
Her academic brilliance and commitment to law laid the foundation for her distinguished career in Nepal’s judiciary.
Career Journey
Early Career
Karki began her career as a law lecturer and researcher before moving into active legal practice. Her sharp legal acumen soon earned her recognition among her peers.
Rise in the Judiciary
She was appointed as a Supreme Court Justice in 2009, where she became known for her fearless stance against corruption and her progressive judgments.
Chief Justice of Nepal
In 2016, Karki made history when she was appointed as the first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nepal. Her tenure, though short, was marked by a commitment to judicial independence, human rights, and accountability.
She retired in 2017, leaving behind a strong legacy in Nepal’s legal system.
Personal Life
Sushila Karki is married to Durga Subedi, a respected professor at Tribhuvan University. The couple has lived a private life, focusing on education, research, and service to the nation.
Outside the courtroom, Karki enjoys reading, writing, and academic research. She has also been involved in legal publications and mentoring younger lawyers.
Awards & Achievements
- First female Chief Justice of Nepal
- Recognized for landmark anti-corruption verdicts
- Honored by various legal and academic institutions in Nepal
- Featured as one of the pioneering women in Nepali history
Physical Statistics
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Height | 5 ft 4 in (approx.) |
Weight | 60 kg (approx.) |
Hair Color | Black (with grey) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Body Type | Average |
Skin Tone | Fair-medium |
Quotes
- “Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done.”
- “No one is above the law, not even those who make it.”
- “Equality in the courtroom is the foundation of a just society.”
Controversies
During her tenure, Sushila Karki faced political pressure and attempts to impeach her by some lawmakers who opposed her rulings. However, public outcry and support from civil society defended her judicial independence, making her one of Nepal’s most respected Chief Justices.
Salary & Net Worth
As Chief Justice of Nepal, Sushila Karki earned an estimated monthly salary of NPR 80,000–100,000. Her net worth in 2025 is estimated between $1–3 million, including savings, pensions, and academic contributions.
Interesting Facts
- She was the first woman in Nepal’s history to reach the position of Chief Justice.
- Her judgments often emphasized anti-corruption and transparency.
- She remains an inspiration for women in law and governance in South Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is Sushila Karki?
A1: Sushila Karki is the first female Chief Justice of Nepal’s Supreme Court, known for her landmark rulings and judicial independence.
Q2: When was Sushila Karki born?
A2: She was born on June 7, 1952, in Biratnagar, Nepal.
Q3: What is Sushila Karki famous for?
A3: She is famous for being Nepal’s first female Chief Justice and her progressive legal decisions.
Q4: Is Sushila Karki married?
A4: Yes, she is married to Durga Subedi, a professor at Tribhuvan University.
Q5: What is Sushila Karki’s net worth?
A5: Her estimated net worth is between $1–3 million as of 2025.
Conclusion
Sushila Karki’s journey from a small town in Biratnagar to becoming the first female Chief Justice of Nepal is nothing short of historic. Her courage, integrity, and dedication to justice continue to inspire generations of lawyers, judges, and young women across South Asia.