Anandiben Patel Attacks ‘Patelism’, Urges Patels to Think Beyond Caste

Surat | Gujarat — In a politically charged and socially significant address, Uttar Pradesh Governor and former Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel launched a sharp critique of caste-based divisions within the Patel community, questioning how long society would remain fractured in the name of Leuva and Kadva identities.

Speaking at the annual Craftroot event in Surat — organised by her daughter Anar Patel, who was recently appointed organisational president of Khodaldham — Anandiben’s remarks are being viewed as a strong message amid Gujarat’s evolving social and political landscape.

“How long will we remain divided in the name of Leuva Patel and Kadva Patel?” she asked from the stage, calling on the community to shed narrow caste fences and embrace a broader identity as “Bharatvasi” and “Hindustani.” She stressed that true leadership must unite the entire society, not just represent a particular sub-caste.

Recalling the values of earlier generations, Anandiben said, “In my grandfather’s time, there were only two or three Patel families in a village. But if any daughter of the village got married, the entire village — especially the Patel families — would take responsibility.” She urged today’s generation to revive that spirit of collective responsibility and generosity.

Her advice was also directed at Anar Patel from the same public platform. Without naming anyone, she cautioned that positions in community organisations must not be confined to caste interests. “If a needy person from another community comes, helping them is true religion,” she said.

Calling education the greatest donation, Anandiben delivered one of her strongest messages: “If a Scheduled Tribe child or a poor girl comes to you, tell our millionaire Patel brothers to pay her fees.” She added that it would be a matter of shame if a bright student scoring 98 percent is forced to drop out due to financial constraints.

Sharing a personal example, she revealed that she herself funds the education of several children anonymously. “True virtue is when the helper’s name remains unknown and the dignity of the recipient is protected,” she said, advocating selfless service over public applause.

The Craftroot event, known for promoting young artists under Anar Patel’s leadership, thus became a platform for a larger social call — one that questioned entrenched caste politics and emphasised inclusive nation-building.