Chandrakant Babubhai Patel, popularly known as CB, is a well-known figure in the Indian diaspora community in the UK, thanks in large part to his role as the founder and editor of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, two respected news outlets serving the British Indian community.
A highly respected and influential figure within the diaspora, his work has been widely recognized and celebrated. He has received a gold medal from the Mahatma Gandhi Foundation for exemplary service towards the community. The numerous awards and accolades he has received over the years have a recent and one of the most prestigious additions this year.
CB Patel has been selected for the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Awards 2023 (PBSA) by the Government of India. The PBSA is one of the highest honours given to members of the Indian diaspora by the Indian Government. This year 27 overseas Indians from around the world have made it to the list.
"I feel humbled and honoured to have been selected for the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar newsweeklies have been serving the community in the UK, telling the stories of the 'living bridge' for the last 50 years as well as providing active and participatory services. This award is dedicated to the continuing support of readers, the ABPL team and my family.
"Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has been a brilliant initiative and an excellent effort to engage with the large, expanding and increasingly influential Indian diaspora, as they play a significant role in the bilateral relationships between India and other countries.
"I look forward to attending the conference and the awards," said Patel.
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Patel's work in promoting the interests and perspectives of the Indian diaspora in the UK has been tireless and wide-ranging and has profoundly impacted the community over the years. Through his leadership and guidance, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar have become quintessential sources of information, news, and analysis for the diaspora, covering everything from local and national politics to business, culture, and more.
In addition to his work with these publications, Patel is also deeply involved in various other initiatives to support and uplift the diaspora. He has served as a mentor to countless young professionals, helping them to navigate their careers and achieve their goals. He has also been a vocal advocate for the rights and interests of the community, using his platform to speak out on issues of importance and to provide a voice for those who may not otherwise have one.
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Born in the Kheda district of Gujarat, he graduated from the MS University of Vadodara and went on to do his Civil Services in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. While working, he also studied law and decided to move to the UK after six years as a financial consultant. Later, he started investing in commercial real estate, and since 1972, he has been leading Asian Business Publications Ltd. (ABPL) Group, taking the publication to groundbreaking new heights. His vision to inform, inspire, entertain, and enlighten serves to inspire the next generations in the community.
Even outside of business and academics, Patel's contributions are truly noteworthy. He defended the Hare Krishna Temple at Letchmore Heath and stood up against the rights of British passport holders of Indian origin in Hong Kong. He also raised campaigns for issues on race equality and diversity, nationality and immigration on various occasions.
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However, despite all his achievements, Patel remains deeply humble and committed to serving the community. He continues to work tirelessly to promote the interests of the diaspora, and his leadership and guidance have been invaluable in helping the community to thrive and succeed in the UK.
In conclusion, CB Patel is a truly remarkable individual, and his work in promoting the Indian diaspora in the UK has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership and dedication to the community have made him a role model for all, and his contributions will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.