Patel

The caste has several subdivisions, and these subdivisions differ from each other in terms of their origin and in terms of rank and of social structure. The Lewa Patels of central Gujarat are a global diaspora and one of the most visible and affluent caste groups in India, and some of India’s wealthiest families, such as the Premjis, carry the patidari lineage. Mukesh and Anil Ambani mother, although not a Lewa, is of patidari origin, and the daughter of Karsanbhai Patel of Nirma (a Kadva) has married a Lewa. Azim Premji's son Rishad Premji’s mother-in-law is a Lewa, and his father-in-law, a Mehta, is most likely an Anavil Brahmin. Anavil Brahmins in fact are comparable to the Patidars and are to be bracketed with them. Mental work comes to be seen as, both, more cultured (sabhya) and more intellectually exacting (buddhishaali). Hence, in Patel discourse, as the proper undertaking of a genetically superior caste, and they commonly cite their mobility across occupations and borders as evidence of this entrepreneurial drive (saahas). Their mental and cultural make-up is a curious mixture of feudal mentality and capitalist outlook, marking them out as a very aggressive, patronising, ruthless and achieving class in Gujarat or elsewhere.