Patels’ ~ The origins
The Patel surname, prevalent in Gujarat, India, originates from the term "Patidar," meaning landholder or village headman, derived from the Prakrit word *paṭṭaïl(l)a-* ("village headman") and Sanskrit *paṭṭakila* ("tenant of royal land"). Historically, Patels were associated with the Kanbi caste, primarily peasant farmers, who rose to socio-economic prominence during the British Raj due to land reforms that favored agricultural communities over warrior castes like the Kolis. These reforms, starting around 1815 in Kheda district, transformed Kanbis into a land-owning elite, adopting the title "Patel" as a hereditary surname around 300 years ago. The Patidar community includes two major sub-castes: Leuva and Kadva, traditionally claiming descent from Lord Rama’s sons, Luv and Kush, respectively, though such claims are considered legendary. Leuva Patels settled in central Gujarat and Saurashtra, while Kadva Patels were primarily in northern Gujarat...
