In a significant development within Gujarat's socio-religious landscape, the Shree Khodaldham Trust (SKT), a powerful Patidar organization, has appointed Anar Patel as its new organizational president. This move has ignited widespread speculation, as Anar is the daughter of former Gujarat Chief Minister and current Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel. The announcement was made by industrialist and SKT chairman Naresh Patel on Wednesday, marking a notable shift in the trust's leadership dynamics.
Background and Appointment Details
Anar Patel first joined the Khodaldham Trust as a trustee in 2023, standing out as the only woman in that role. Now, in her fifties, she will oversee presidents, district conveners, and co-conveners across 11 zones. The trust, which aims to strengthen the Leuva Patidar community, is active in 31 of Gujarat's 34 districts, with exceptions in Chhota Udepur, Dang, and Vav-Tharad due to minimal Leuva Patidar populations there.
Political Implications and Speculations
BJP leaders have not dismissed the possibility of Anar Patel entering active politics through this appointment. They point to the presence of Ramesh Tilala, a BJP MLA from Rajkot South, as a current trustee, suggesting a political undercurrent. A senior BJP leader commented, "I believe that there could be substance in the speculation about her backdoor entry into politics through this appointment in Khodaldham Trust. Nepotism is there in politics. Her caste background, coupled with association with Khodaldham, makes her profile very strong."
Another BJP leader noted that Naresh Patel has been leaning towards the BJP recently, given the lack of significant opposition. "And the appointment of Anar as president of Khodaldham may benefit both of them," they added. Anar had previously joined the BJP's Ahmedabad district unit in 2014 during a membership drive, though attempts to reach her for comment were unsuccessful. A close family member stated she is more focused on social work and "does not like politics."
Anar Patel's Personal and Professional Journey
Born in 1971 in Ahmedabad to Anandiben and Mafatbhai Patel, Anar developed an early interest in the arts and heritage-themed home design. She holds a BSc in Mathematics from St. Xavier's College, Ahmedabad, and an MBA from Nirma University. Married to Jayesh, whose family includes the late Padma Shri awardee Ishwarbhai Patel, known for pioneering low-cost sanitation designs, Anar has a daughter and comes from a background of social entrepreneurship.
For nearly three decades, Anar has been involved with organizations like Manav Sadhna, Gramshree, and Craftroots, working with slum children and rural artisans, particularly women. Interestingly, while the Khodaldham Trust serves the Leuva Patidar community, Anar's in-laws belong to the Kadva Patidar sub-caste, highlighting the diverse connections within the Patidar fold.
Broader Context and Future Outlook
This appointment comes at a time when Gujarat's political and social spheres are closely intertwined, with caste-based organizations playing pivotal roles. The Khodaldham Trust's influence extends across districts, making Anar's leadership position a potential stepping stone for broader engagement. As discussions about her political future continue, observers are watching how this move might reshape dynamics within the Patidar community and Gujarat's political landscape.
The story underscores the ongoing interplay between social organizations and politics in India, where familial ties and community affiliations often influence leadership roles. With Anar Patel at the helm of a key trust, her journey could signal new trends in how women and legacy figures navigate these spaces.
