Shree Matiya Patidar Samaj of London!
After a period of quiet reflection, we're reaching out with
renewed energy and a heartfelt commitment to our community...
This is a moment for us to look forward together...
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Where did we come from
Our story is a journey of resilience, community, and the unyielding spirit of our ancestors. It begins a thousand years ago, with the courageous migration of our forefathers, the Kanbis, who left Punjab to preserve their identity and heritage. This journey, a testament to their adaptability, led them to Marvad and eventually to Khambhat in Gujarat. It was here, through hard work and a deep connection to the land, that the title of Patel—meaning "one who kept the records of the land"—was born. Their ability to take on new responsibilities and adapt to a new environment is a value we carry forward today.
As generations passed, our people settled and prospered in the fertile lands of Charotar. But as families grew, a new chapter began. Seeking new opportunities, a group of Leava and Kadva Patidar families embarked on another journey, this time to South Gujarat, where they established new villages around Surat. This forward-looking mindset, the willingness to leave the familiar behind to build a better future, is the very essence of our foundation.
It was in this new home that our identity evolved further. The name Matiya Patidar arose from a deep commitment to our beliefs, representing a new path forward. This was not a departure from our heritage, but a powerful statement of our values. The decision to go on a 'Mat' (a revolt or a collective decision) was a declaration of our independence of thought and a commitment to progress. This defining moment led to significant social changes, such as the abolition of the dowry system and the allowance of remarrying for widows. These actions demonstrate a core value of the Matiya Patidar people: the courage to embrace change and improve the lives of our community members.
From Punjab to Gujarat and now across the world, our people have always carried these values: resilience, adaptability, and the courage to forge a better future. We are a group of people who have always looked forward and embraced change for the betterment of our community. Today, as the Shree Matiya Patidar Samaj of London, we honor this incredible journey by building a community that is rooted in our renewed values of respect, compassion, community well-being, service, and intergenerational learning. These values are not new; they are the modern expression of the same principles that guided our forefathers. We are excited to continue writing our story, building a stronger, more connected Samaj for all.
About Us
Our community's story in London is one of resilience, unity, and a tireless commitment to our core values. While we may be looking forward to a new chapter, it's essential to understand the journey that brought us here.
The Shree Matiya Patidar Samaj of London (SMPSL) was officially registered as a charity in 1993 but was a community way before this time, with its constitution adopted on November 14th of that year. This formal establishment provided the organization with a solid framework to serve its growing community. Its primary objectives, laid out at its inception, were to advance the Hindu religion, relieve poverty and sickness, and provide a sense of community for the Matiya people in the UK.
The formation of the SMPSL was a reflection of a broader trend among Patidar communities in the UK. The early groups were often formed as social clubs to help new immigrants from India's Gujarat state, particularly those from the Surat, Navsari, and Valsad districts, find their footing. These early members, driven by a "never say die" attitude, worked hard to establish their families and build a new life while staying connected to their roots.
Over the years, the Samaj has been a central hub for the London community. It has organized key Hindu festivals like Navratri and Diwali, and has been a place for members to gather, celebrate, and support one another. The SMPSL has also extended its charitable work beyond the local community, raising funds for causes in Gujarat, such as a cancer hospital in Navsari.
Today, as we look to the future, we honor the vision of those who came before us. We carry forward their legacy of hard work and community spirit, re-imagining our purpose to serve the evolving needs of a new generation. This "new chapter" is not about forgetting our past, but about building on our strong foundation to ensure the Samaj remains a vibrant and essential part of our lives for many years to come.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower and unite the Matiya Patidar community in London. We strive to be a modern, inclusive, and forward-thinking Samaj that honors our past while actively shaping a bright future for our members. We are committed to fostering strong bonds, promoting cultural well-being, and providing a platform for growth for every generation.
Our Renewed Values
Our actions are guided by a set of core values that reflect our history and our aspirations for the future. These values are the bedrock of our community.
- Respect for Cultural Heritage & Lifelong Learning: We honor our rich history and traditions, providing opportunities for every member to learn and connect with our cultural roots.
- Respect for Each Other: We foster an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and kindness, recognizing the unique contributions of every individual.
- "To Teach Rather Than Preach": We believe in leading by example, sharing knowledge, and providing guidance in a compassionate and supportive manner.
- Compassion: We are a community that supports one another in times of need, celebrating our joys and sharing our burdens with empathy.
- Community Well-being: We are dedicated to the physical, mental, and social well-being of our members, providing resources and initiatives that enhance quality of life.
- Service: We believe in the power of giving back, encouraging volunteerism and active participation to strengthen our Samaj and the wider community.
Office Bearers
Linaben
President
Lina Patel recently retired after 40 successful years as a senior manager in accounting, and is now embracing a new chapter of deeper community involvement. As president of Shree Matiya Patidar Samaj London since 2007, she has long balanced leadership with service. With more time to give, Lina is dedicated to mentoring, supporting local initiatives, and being a steady presence wherever help is needed—driven by purpose, connection, and a lifelong commitment to making a difference.
07966 659426 lina@smpsl.co.uk
CHETAN
Vice President
Chetan Patel is a seasoned entrepreneur who has dedicated his 52 years to shaping the technology landscape. His career journey is marked by a history of building successful ventures in both the retail and travel sectors, but his true North is always finding new ways to benefit humanity. As a father of two, he balances his professional life with his personal passions for fishing and music. Chetan is driven by a profound desire to create things that make a positive difference in the world, believing that innovation should always serve a greater purpose.
07773 429165 chetan@smpsl.co.uk
ARUNKUMAR
Treasurer
Arun Patel is an experienced accounting professional with a strong focus on financial operations and business support. Outside of work, he’s actively involved in his local Hindu community, helping to organise cultural events and youth programs. Arun is passionate about mentoring, and staying active—often found exploring new destinations or spending quality time with family and friends.
07963 776032 arun@smpsl.co.uk
RAJUBHAI
Secretary
Raj Patel is a seasoned pharmaceutical specialist with a passion for supporting others—whether improving patient care or mentoring the next generation. With decades of experience in healthcare, he’s known for building strong partnerships and guiding teams to success. In the community, Raj actively shares his knowledge and energy, helping others grow through informal mentoring and local initiatives. Outside of work, he enjoys motor racing, exploring financial markets, and personal development—always curious, always giving back.
07775 704034 raj@smpsl.co.uk
SONIA
Assistant Secretary
Committee Members
Our dedicated committee members are the stewards of this new vision. They are volunteers from within the community, committed to bringing our mission and values to life. Each member brings a unique set of skills and a deep passion for service. We invite you to learn more about them on our Committee Members Bio Page.
ALKA
Committee Member
ANILKUMAR
Committee Member
Anil Patel is now happily retired following a long and successful career in BT as a Senior Finance Manager. Since then I have taken up Golf which helps keep me active and soon learnt that it’s a sport with endless series of tragedies obscured by the occasional miracle. I have served on the SMPSL committee for many years and look forward to passing on the baton to our younger generation.
07484 141946 anil@smpsl.co.uk
ASHA
Committee Member
Asha Patel is a friendly and reliable member of the community who has worked in both finance and healthcare. She now supports patients as a pharmacy technician, where her caring nature and eye for detail make a real difference. Asha enjoys spending time with her two boys, baking cakes, floristry, home decorating, travelling, and listening to Indian music
07752 009194 asha@smpsl.co.uk
BACHUBHAI
Committee Member
DARPAN
Committee Member
Darpan Patel is a pharmaceutical buyer with strong experience in the healthcare sector. Outside of work, he’s passionate about sports and dedicated to bringing people together—often organising events that spark connection and growth. Whether supporting professional development or social initiatives, Darpan thrives on creating opportunities for others to flourish.
07545 735436 darpan@smpsl.co.uk
KISHORBHAI
Committee Member
Kishore Patel had a long career in IT providing Solutions to the Education sector and small businesses. Retired, hobbies include cooking and travelling but dabble at anything that needs fixing. (Jack of all trades, Master at none!) .
07909 010676 kishore@smpsl.co.uk
PRITESH
Committee Member
Pritesh Patel is an experienced IT project manager and active community volunteer. He plays a key role in organising cultural events and youth mentorship through his local Hindu organisation, and has supported national efforts like the NHS vaccination rollout. Outside of work, he enjoys Motor racing, skiing, cycling, golfing, and helping others grow personally and professionally. Who's up for a ski trip!
07808 192983 pritesh@smpsl.co.uk
SHAVI
Committee Member
VIJAY
Committee Member
Events
Don't Miss Anything
Aug 1st, 2025
Charity Address
16 LONG LANE MILL END RICKMANSWORTH WD3 8YE
Charity number:
1031233 10
Phone:
01923 776069
E-Mail:
info@smpsl.co.uk