The roots of new FBI Director Kash Patel’s family can be traced back to a village in Gujarat
Indian-American Kash Patel Traces Roots to Gujarat
Indian-American Kash Patel, who has been confirmed by the US Senate to head the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), has deep roots in Gujarat, India. Patel’s family hails from Bhadran village in Anand district, where they originally lived before migrating to Uganda 70 to 80 years ago. Members of the Patidar community, to which Patel belongs, shared insights into his family’s history and journey.
Family Migration and Settlement
Leaders of the Patidar community revealed that Patel’s close family members are all settled in foreign countries, with many of them residing in the USA. After moving to Africa, Patel’s family sold their ancestral houses in Bhadran. The Chh Gam Patidar Mandal, an organization representing the community in Anand, keeps a detailed family tree, or ‘vanshavali,’ that includes the names of Patel’s father, Pramod Patel, and other relatives.
Preserving Family Heritage
While Kash Patel’s name is yet to be added to the official family tree, the organization holds records of 18 generations of his family. The family originally lived in the Moti Khadki area of Bhadran village before their migration to Uganda. Despite not visiting Anand in recent years, Patel’s family remains connected to their roots, and the community looks forward to updating their family tree with the next generation’s names.
Historical Background
Patel’s family briefly returned to India after being expelled from Uganda in the 1970s. Following their time in India, they relocated to Canada, where Patel was born in 1980, before eventually settling in the United States. The expulsion of Indians from Uganda by dictator Idi Amin in 1972 led to a significant diaspora of the Indian community, with many seeking refuge in other countries.
Professional Achievements
Before his appointment as the head of the FBI, Kash Patel served as the Chief of Staff to Acting Secretary of Defence Christopher Miller. His responsibilities included overseeing the Secretary’s mission at the Department of Defence and providing counsel on operational matters. Patel’s background as a trained lawyer, his educational journey, and his passion for ice hockey highlight the diverse facets of his personality and interests.
Community Connections
The Patidar community, encompassing six villages/towns in Anand district, has a rich history and deep connections to prominent figures like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. As the first Indian-American to lead the FBI, Kash Patel’s achievements reflect the strength of his heritage and the values instilled in him by his community.
Conclusion
Kash Patel’s remarkable journey from Gujarat to the pinnacle of law enforcement in the United States exemplifies the spirit of resilience and success that defines the Indian-American experience. His story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of heritage, hard work, and determination in achieving one’s dreams. Patel’s roots in Gujarat continue to shape his identity and influence his professional endeavors, making him a proud representative of his community and heritage.