Classification Muslim, farmers Languages Gujarati and Urdu | Religions Islam Subdivisions 12 main clans | |
Populated states Maharashtra and Gujarat | ||
The term Muslim Patel applies to Muslim converts from the Hindu Patidar caste who are found mainly in the state of Gujarat in India. They are distinct from the Sunni Bohras, another Gujarati Muslim community that also uses the surname Patel. Common surnames include Gangat, Dalal, Desai and Munshi.
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History and origin
According to the community’s tradition, they were originally Hindus of the Kurmi caste who were converted to Islam by the Sufi saint Sahawa Sindh. They are found mainly in Bharuch, where they live in close proximity with the Sunni Vohras, with whom they share many traditions. They are an endogamous community, but there are cases of marriages with the Sunni Bohra. Cross and parallel cousin marriages are quite common.
Present circumstances
The Muslim Patel are traditionally dependent on agriculture. They grow wheat, cotton and pulses. Some of the poorer members of the community are agricultural labourers. They also rear buffaloes and sell milk. They have a various caste association and Jamat, which deals with the welfare of the community. They are a Sunni Muslim community, with many belonging to the reformist Deobandi sect and Barelvi School. Indian cricketer Munaf Patel, of Bharuch, is a member of this community.
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