Patidars (Patels) use the Gam (village grouping) system rather than the Brahmanical gotra system. Leuva and Kadva are the two main divisions. Gam groupings like Chha Gam (6 villages) and Bavis Gam (22 villages) determine marriage eligibility.
Leuva Patels and Kadva Patels traditionally do not intermarry. Within each division, Gam grouping is the primary marriage compatibility factor.
Gam means village grouping. Leuva Patidars are organized into groups like Chha Gam (6 villages), Panch Gam, and Bavis Gam.
While some Patels know their gotra, the Gam system is far more important for marriage decisions.
No. Traditionally, Leuva and Kadva Patidars do not intermarry.
Yes! Gam grouping is essential in Patel marriage biodata. BiodataJi includes dedicated fields for both Gam and gotra.