Ravindranath Morarji Patel

With profound love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Ravindranath Morarji Patel, a cherished husband, father, and community leader who passed away in Round Rock, Texas, on June 29, 2024.
Ravindranath was born on May 12, 1949, to Maniben and Morarji Patel in Ndola, Zambia. His early years were spent in Kapiri Mposhi, Ndola, and then in Que Que, Zimbabwe where he attended Marist Brothers School. It was there that he developed a lifelong passion for field hockey and cricket, the two sports that would shape his future endeavors.
Following his father's passing when he was just 15, Ravi began working at Ndola Milling to support his family. Despite the hardships, he continued to pursue his love for music, playing as a percussionist in a local band.
Ravindranath's entrepreneurial spirit led him to create several successful businesses. Starting with Kanrav, he expanded into various other ventures including the Clothing Fashion Boutique "Guys & Dolls," Zenith for formal wear, R. Morarji, and Vision Higher Electronics Store. His innovative approach and determination led him to vertically integrate his operations into textile manufacturing with Mukuba Textiles, Copperbelt Weaving Mills, and Excel Textile Mills. When Zambia faced a shortage of raw materials, he turned to sustainable rural development, supporting cotton farming in the local villages. His beloved projects, Copperbelt Weaving Mills and Excel Textile Mills became vital suppliers of medical bandages to hospitals and military-grade tents to both the Zambian Armed Forces and Zambia Railways.
Ravindranath's personal life was filled with love and joy. He met the love of his life, Pushpa, at a dance party. Their first dance in 1969 was to "Twist & Shout" by the Beatles, followed by a Jimi Hendrix concert at Dag Hammarskjold Stadium in Ndola. They married on November 14, 1971, and together built their first home brick by brick in New Kanini, Ndola, which remains a testament to their love and partnership. Together, they raised two sons, Nirmal and Nirav.
Ravindranath's passion for hockey and cricket blossomed into leadership roles. He captained the local cricket league at Kanini Sports Club and later became the Captain of the Zambian National Cricket Council. He also served as Chairman of the Zambia and Eastern Central Africa Cricket Team, fostering sportsmanship and unity.
A dedicated philanthropist, Ravindranath co-founded Simba International School, where he served as a trustee and advisor to the board of directors. His commitment to education ensured that many in his community had access to quality learning opportunities. He also served as Chairman of the Kanini Sports Club and Ndola Hindu Samaj, promoting unity for decades. His charitable work was often quiet and humble, with many discovering his contributions through posted tributes and plaques in public places honoring family, friends, and community members.
Ravindranath's legacy is one of generosity, leadership, and love. He leaves behind a community enriched by his contributions and a family that cherishes his memory.
He is survived by, wife Pushpaben Patel, son Nirmal Bhakta, daughter in law Sulma Bhakta, grandchildren Aum and Ishan, son Nirav Bhakta, daughter in law Poonam Bhakta, and grandson Shiv.
Brother Kantilalbhai Morarj Patel, sister-in law Savitaben Patel and their children Rajeev, Krupa, Jagruti and Sonal.
Sister Kanchanben Jagubhai Patel and her children Prahlad, Kalpesh and Nikhil.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Simba International School or any educational organization of your choice to honor Ravindranath's commitment to education and community service.
The visitation will be livestreamed at the following link: https://youtube.com/live/agHV1ONjESo?feature=share
The funeral service will be livestreamed at the following link: https://youtube.com/live/P3jdw81voVg?feature=share