Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India: Jay Patel, an Indian-American author and entrepreneur, officially entered the world of literary fiction with the launch of his debut book, Barrister Mr Patel, at the Ahmedabad International Book Festival on November 12. The event drew a diverse audience of readers, writers, and public dignitaries at the Sabarmati Riverfront Event Centre.

The festival, organized collaboratively by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and the National Book Trust under the “Vanche Gujarat 2.0” program, served as the platform for the book release.

Co-written with filmmaker Abhishek Dudhaiya, the novel provides a narrative perspective on the legal and political life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Published by Midland Publishers & Distributors, the 357-page book chronicles Patel’s journey from his early days in Nadiad to his legal education in London, emphasizing how discipline, legal expertise, and courtroom prowess shaped him into a formidable leader.

The story follows Patel’s return to India, his leadership roles during the Kheda and Bardoli satyagrahas, and his skill in translating Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence into organized civic action. It also highlights his pivotal contributions at the time of India’s Independence, particularly in unifying over 560 princely states and establishing the framework for a united nation.

The authors designed the book to be engaging and accessible for younger readers, showcasing Patel’s London years as formative in the making of the man often referred to as the “Iron Man of India.”

Born in Ahmedabad into a Gujarati family with roots in the diamond trade, Patel later moved to the United States, where he developed a multifaceted career spanning healthcare technology, environmental initiatives, government contracting, and the film industry. He is chairman of Med Data Science and heads ventures such as DTV Motor Corporation, alongside investments in technologies addressing global challenges.

The Ahmedabad International Book Festival, continuing throughout November, features a variety of activities including school competitions, children’s sections, and sessions focused on literature, technology, and the promotion of reading.