From Dharmaj to Global Success: Mukesh Patel’s Journey of Resilience and Empowerment in South Africa

Even though they are far from their homeland, Gujaratis have never forgotten their roots. Across the world, the sons and daughters of Gujarat are making their mark, embracing their workplaces, and bringing pride to both Gujarat and India. Bhaskar’s new series, “Global Gujarati,” highlights the struggles, triumphs, and inspiring stories of such individuals.

Starting today, the first episode tells the story of Mukesh Patel, a successful pharmacist and businessman in Johannesburg, South Africa, whose journey is a testament to perseverance, faith, and unwavering dedication.

Early roots: from dharmaj to Johannesburg

Mukesh Patel was born in November 1953 in Johannesburg, South Africa, to a family originally from Dharmaj village in Anand district. Although born and raised in South Africa, Gujarati blood runs deep in his veins. Mukesh’s grandfather, Muljibhai Patel, first arrived in Johannesburg in 1890 with his four brothers. Back home in Dharmaj, their ancestral house is still remembered as “Das Ghara” (Ten Houses), built collectively by ten brothers. Mukesh’s house remains a symbol of their family heritage.

Mukesh recalls, “Our roots always remained in Gujarat. Even though we were far away, our culture, values, and identity stayed with us. I still remember the stories my grandfather shared about his struggles and his work to uplift the Indian community in South Africa.”

Education in India during apartheid

Growing up during the era of apartheid in South Africa, Mukesh faced challenges that shaped his resilience. At the age of eight, due to racial discrimination policies, his parents sent him to Gujarat for education. Initially, he stayed with his maternal family in Sojitra, and later pursued further studies at Bhavan’s College, Vadodara. He completed his B.Pharm from Bangalore, preparing himself for a professional life in a world far more hostile than the classrooms he attended in India.

Mukesh shares, “Being the only son, I had to return to South Africa after completing my studies. But my time in Gujarat was formative. From participating in the anti-cow slaughter movement at the age of 11 to joining the Nav Nirman movement, I learned the importance of standing up for justice and community service.”

Family background: values and Early Lessons

Mukesh’s mother, Madhuben Patel, was a Gujarati school teacher in South Africa and a pioneer in establishing Gujarati schools there. His father, though wealthy initially, later faced financial struggles and worked in a cloth shop. Mukesh remembers, “Our family has always valued education and community service. My mother inspired me with her teaching, while my father instilled the importance of hard work and perseverance.”

Mukesh also reflects on his grandfather’s legacy: “My grandfather, Muljidada, was a businessman who helped start Gandhi’s practice in South Africa as a treasurer. He opposed slavery and government injustice, even enduring jail time for his convictions. His courage and principles deeply influenced my outlook on life.”

Struggling against racial discrimination

Returning to South Africa with his Indian degree was not easy. The apartheid system rendered foreign qualifications nearly useless. Mukesh recalls the humiliation: “Indian degrees were not recognized. Finding a job was almost impossible, and my parents advised me to start selling vegetables in the local market. Despite my education, the reality of racial discrimination was stark.”

From segregated parks and benches to restrictions on staying in certain areas, Mukesh experienced firsthand the harshness of apartheid. “People were ostracized, humiliated, and denied basic rights. Even visiting a lake or a tower required special permissions for non-white individuals,” he recalls.

Despite these challenges, Mukesh’s resolve never wavered. Inspired by his upbringing and activism in India, he committed himself to fight injustice and carve a path forward for himself and his family.

Early career and first job

Mukesh’s determination led him to a Quality Assurance Manager position at Gillette FMG Pharmacy, but the journey was arduous. “I had to walk 40 km to attend my first job interview because public transport was unavailable. I faced racial prejudice even after booking the restaurant for lunch with my staff; we were denied service simply because we were non-white,” Mukesh remembers.

His persistence, professionalism, and ethical conduct won him recognition. Eventually, he secured a stable position, which laid the foundation for his future entrepreneurial journey.

Building a business with faith and strategy

Mukesh’s entrepreneurial journey truly began after guidance from Pramukh Swami. Due to South Africa’s registration rules for pharmacists, Mukesh could not operate in his own name. He and his wife, Beena Patel, a registered pharmacist, decided to open their first pharmacy in her name, with Mukesh working under her.

He explains, “I set aside pride and ego, making my wife the official boss. Together, we worked day and night to grow the business. Today, we operate 18 retail pharmacies across South Africa and are wholesale distributors with a turnover of 500 crores, growing 10-15% annually.”

Mukesh attributes this success to hard work, family unity, and the blessings of his guru, Pramukh Swami.

Contribution to the Community and Religion

Beyond business, Mukesh has been deeply involved in community and religious activities. Under his guidance, eight Swaminarayan temples were constructed in South Africa. He also contributed to disaster relief efforts in India, raising funds for victims of the Latur earthquake in 1994 and the Kutch earthquake, collaborating with organizations like Gift of Gives.

He shares, “Faith, humility, and commitment to service have always guided our actions. Whether it’s constructing temples or helping Gujaratis abroad, these values remain central to our lives.”

Family and legacy

Mukesh and Beena Patel have three children: Birju, Nirali, and Akshar, all of whom are accomplished in their respective fields. Birju is a pharmacist and MBA, Nirali studied at Harvard, and Akshar is a CA. All three are actively involved in family business and social initiatives.

Mukesh reflects, “My parents and guru taught me the importance of family unity, discipline, and service. Even today, I work from morning to evening, guiding my children in business and temple affairs. Our goal is to ensure the next generation contributes positively to society.”

Lessons for the youth

Mukesh’s journey is full of lessons for young Gujaratis and Indians worldwide:

He advises, “Never get discouraged. Avoid distractions like excessive social media, gambling, or idleness. Focus on studies, work hard, and maintain faith in God. With determination and effort, success is inevitable.”

Mukesh patel: Global gujarati icon

Mukesh Patel’s story is a remarkable example of how Gujaratis living abroad preserve their heritage, uphold values, and achieve success despite immense challenges. From walking 40 km to attend interviews to building an empire of pharmacies and contributing to religious and social causes, Mukesh’s journey inspires countless others.

He concludes, “Even in the face of oppression, loss, and humiliation, perseverance, ethical behavior, and faith guided me. Today, I see the fruits of hard work, family unity, and devotion. My story is proof that Global Gujaratis can shine anywhere in the world.”

Upcoming episodes

The “Global Gujarati” series continues to highlight inspiring stories. The next episode will focus on a Patidar daughter in America who, after being bedridden for two years, now manages her own motel and three additional businesses—demonstrating courage, resilience, and the Gujarati spirit of enterprise.

Through these stories, Bhaskar aims to connect Gujaratis worldwide with their roots, showcasing how determination, education, family values, and faith can overcome adversity and achieve remarkable success.