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Dr. Archana Shailesh Patel
Dr. Archana Shailesh Patel 
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| Born | 28 April 1976, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Residence | Dharmaj, Gujarat, India |
| Occupation | |
| Years active | 1986–present |
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| Education |
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| Awards |
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| Website | Instagram – Dhunn Petting Farm |
Dr. Archana Shailesh Patel (born 28 April 1976) is an Indian animal welfare activist, acclaimed Gujarati author, theatre performer, and public speaker based in Gujarat. Her efforts span over three decades across fields of education, literature, wildlife rehabilitation, and rural development.
She is the visionary founder of Dhunn – The Petting Farm, an educational initiative and animal sanctuary located in Dharmaj, Gujarat. The farm is home to over 350 animals of 48 unique species and is actively involved in community education programs.
Early Life and Education
Born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Dr. Archana Patel showed early interest in performing arts and animal care. She studied at Little Flower School and earned a B.A. in Indian Culture from Gujarat University in 1996.
Driven by a desire to serve others, she pursued a Diploma in Nursing and later completed international veterinary programs through platforms like VETMEDUX and Clinician’s Brief.
Career Overview
Arts and Literature
Patel began her artistic journey in the late 1980s, performing in Gujarati theatre and modeling for local campaigns. Her storytelling skills transitioned into writing columns, short stories, and social essays in the Gujarati language, gaining recognition for her thought-provoking narratives on empathy, heritage, and resilience.
Wildlife Rescue and Dhunn – The Petting Farm
Her deep-rooted compassion for animals led to the establishment of Dhunn – The Petting Farm, a sanctuary for rescued and exotic animals. Under her leadership, the farm operates both as a rehabilitation center and a school outreach hub, advocating animal welfare, biodiversity, and environmental sensitivity.
She collaborates with veterinarians, NGOs, and educational institutions to conduct awareness programs and rescue operations, especially in rural areas of Gujarat.
Motivational Speaking and Social Outreach
An accomplished motivational speaker, Dr. Patel addresses youth, women, and rural communities on themes of kindness, mental health, compassion, and eco-responsibility. Her sessions are known for integrating emotional well-being with practical solutions to everyday challenges.
She is also an active contributor to rural upliftment initiatives, encouraging sustainable farming, women's empowerment, and humane education.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Patel has been recognized nationally and internationally for her multi-sector contributions:
- Rashtriya Pratishtha Puraskar – for humanitarian excellence
- Indian Visionary Award – for contributions to social and cultural development
- Reptile Rescuer Award – for outstanding service in wildlife rescue
Honorary Doctorates from:
- HDAC (2024)
- AMC India (2024)
- World Council of Education, Peace and Culture (2025)
Personal Life
Dr. Archana Patel resides in Dharmaj, Gujarat, where she oversees Dhunn – The Petting Farm. When not engaged in rescue missions or speaking engagements, she dedicates time to writing, mentoring, and spiritual reflection.