Indian-American author and investor Jay Patel unveiled his first book, “Barrister Mr. Patel,” during the Ahmedabad International Film Festival 2025, held at the Sabarmati Riverfront from November 13 to 23. The launch commemorates the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, often called India’s Iron Man and a key architect of national unity.
Co-authored with filmmaker Abhishek Dudhaiya, the book delves into Sardar Patel’s early years as a barrister and his transformation into one of India’s most influential leaders. Resulting from two years of meticulous research that included studying archives and visiting historical sites in London, the narrative paints a vivid portrait of Patel’s evolution from a lawyer to a unifying force in India’s freedom struggle.
Through its pages, “Barrister Mr. Patel” highlights Patel’s unwavering principles of integrity, courage, and selfless service. Patel explained that the book seeks to reconnect the Indian diaspora and global readers with Sardar Patel’s legacy. “This work is my heartfelt tribute to the Iron Man of India,” he said. “His life reminds us how conviction and character can shape a nation’s destiny. I hope it inspires younger generations to appreciate his enduring impact.”
Jay Patel also revealed that copies of “Barrister Mr. Patel” will be placed in major US universities, alongside works that celebrate international icons like Franklin D. Roosevelt, George Washington, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and now, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This initiative, he said, aims to bring India’s message of unity and strength to the global stage.
The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and National Book Trust India organized the festival, which includes a Children’s Film Festival screening 4 to 7 international award-winning movies each evening. The event also features vibrant cultural programs—folk music by Kirtidan Gadhvi, poetry sessions with Ankit Trivedi, orchestral performances, and discussions on leadership and security featuring Lt. Gen. (Retd) KJS Dhillon and IPS (Retd) K Vijaykumar.
Students attending the festival can engage in live sessions on AI, journalism, and the Gandhi-Mandela legacy, and even secure on-the-spot internships and writing opportunities with participating publishers—making the event a dynamic blend of culture, learning, and inspiration.
