Surat: A new controversy has emerged within the Patidar community following reports that Patidar folk singer Riddhi Rajpara has married music rhythm artist (drummer) Jayesh Vaghela. Several community members have reacted to the development on social media, with some also calling for the couple not to be invited to community events.

Patidar community member Hiren Bhesania (Rudra), in a social media post, appealed to community mandals, institutions and event organizers not to provide a platform to Riddhi Rajpara and Jayesh Vaghela at the community’s social, religious and cultural programmes. He linked the issue to the community’s traditions and values.

According to Hiren Rudra, Riddhi Rajpara and Jayesh Vaghela left their homes on May 20, 2026. Following this, community leaders and family members reportedly made efforts to persuade them to reconsider their decision. However, both remained firm in their choice.

Sources close to the family said Riddhi Rajpara is the only daughter in the family and that her decision has come as a shock to her relatives. It is also learnt that efforts are still being made by family members to convince her to return home.

Meanwhile, it has come to light that Riddhi Rajpara has changed her name on social media. The singer, previously known as ‘Riddhi Rajpara’, is now reportedly using the name ‘RJ Vaghela’.

Reacting to the matter, another Patidar community member, Vijay Mangukia, said that family values and traditions should be preserved within society. He expressed concern over such incidents and appealed to community leaders, parents and youth to remain aware and vigilant.

He said there should be a serious discussion on the increasing number of runaway marriages and inter-caste marriages within the community. He also urged the government to consider legal provisions related to the issue.

Riddhi Rajpara is a native of the Mahuva area in Bhavnagar district and currently resides in Surat with her family. She has been working as a folk singer for the past seven to eight years and has performed at various social and cultural events, including programmes organised by the Patidar community.

It is worth noting that the inter-caste marriage of Patidar singer Aarti Sangani recently sparked widespread discussion within the community. Following Riddhi Rajpara’s marriage, the debate over the issue has once again intensified.

DeshGujarat