For over five and a half decades, Chandrakant Babubhai Patel (CB Patel) has been a distinguished figure, dedicated to serving the Gujarati community both within Gujarat and beyond. In London, more than ten Gujaratis share this similar name, which is why he embraced the nickname or affectionate short form given by the people, CB Patel. Today, this name has become widely recognised across the country and the world. His name has gained recognition through his work, and his work is driven by passion. This passion stems from the blessings of his parents and saints and it continues to thrive and will endure.
I never imagined that my first meeting with CB would be so warm and heartfelt, but it turned out to be true. At the age of 88, he possesses an energetic, vibrant and spirited personality. There is no trace of lethargy in him, and witnessing his influence in London, combined with the blessings of both Saraswati (knowledge) and Lakshmi (wealth), was a joy. The popular belief that "Saraswati and Lakshmi cannot reside together" was something I had never heard disproven before, but today, I witnessed it firsthand.
58 years ago, living in London must have been quite an experience, one could wonder if Gujaratis were easily found, or if they could get Gujarati food and resources. Only CB could truly speak to that experience. However, today, London boasts a small Gujarati enclave. Gujaratis are present and active. CB Patel is the one who took over the newspaper 'Gujarat Samachar’ in 1972, bringing news of Gujarat and Gujaratis to the diaspora. He also started English newspaper 'New Life’, which is now known as 'Asian Voice’, catering to the second and third generation of Asians in the UK, who can’t read Gujarati.
CB's hometown is Bhadran, Gujarat. From the time of Bhagwan Swaminarayan in Bhadran, he is well connected with the Vadtal Sampraday. His grandfather used to visit Vadtal and provide various services, and CB Patel mentioned that there is a room named after his grandfather in Vadtal. His grandfather was a dedicated follower. CB shared that he received blessings from his father, who had become a sanyasi (saint). When CB was also chasing material success, his sanyasi father, in his role as a guru, advised him, while money is important, it is not everything, understand this and live accordingly. This advice led to a significant turning point in his life. CB's expression as he pointed to the image of his sanyasi father seemed to convey deep emotion. For modern individuals who often forget their parents and humanity after achieving success, this moment is truly inspiring.
CB says that the revolutionary thoughts of Shreeji Maharaj have had a profound impact on his life. Reflecting on his journey from the humble beginnings to a broader mission, he mentions that even those who were uneducated in society have experienced transformation through Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Swami Sahajanand has provided the vision for living a life free from vices like theft and addiction, and instead embracing a life of virtues.
“In London, there are temples from various regions of Gujarat, including those from Kutch and BAPS Maninagar, but I hold a special respect for the satsangis from Kutch. They are known for their industrious and generous nature. They never hesitate to contribute to society and religion through their donations.
"Pravinbhai (V M Patel), who is with you, has also been very active in the community. I have great respect for Daxesh Patel as well, who is the head of the 22 Gam Samaj. These individuals should continue to step forward for our people. We should keep contributing to language and religion. Reflecting on my memories with BAPS, I noted that its origins also trace back to Vadtal. The literary work you are doing for the 200th anniversary of Vadtal is incredibly important and necessary. Balvant Jani, who is close to me, has acted as a bridge for his message during our meeting.
"Through the Sarangpur temple and the Hanuman Katha, Swami Hariprakashdasji Athanavala, Pavan Swami of Kalali, Harigun Swami of Umreth introduced the youths to culture and values. While we stood to acknowledge them, the bond formed has deeply resonated in our hearts.”
In a meeting, such an opinion can be seen as excessive enthusiasm, and whether my opinion is correct or not can be confirmed through a personal meeting. He is a person who lives with humility, immersed in the joy of Mahadev. A unique person, a devotee of Saraswati and Lakshmi, dedicated to spread his mother tongue.
