Dr. Archana Shailesh Patel

	Dr. Archana Shailesh Patel
Born	28 April 1976, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Nationality	Indian
Residence	Dharmaj, Gujarat, India
Occupations	Theatre artist Writer Animal rescuer Motivational speaker Television actor Model
Years active	1986–present
Known for	Wildlife rescue Gujarati literature Public speaking Dhunn – The Petting Farm
Education	B.A. in Indian Culture – Gujarat University Diploma in Nursing – Ahmedabad Para Medical College Veterinary Certifications – VETMEDUX, Clinician’s Brief
Awards	Rashtriya Pratishtha Puraskar Indian Visionary Award Reptile Rescuer Award Honorary Doctorates – HDAC, AMC, WCEPC
Website	Instagram – Dhunn Petting Farm

Dr. Archana Shailesh Patel (born 28 April 1976) is a prominent Indian animal welfare advocate, Gujarati author, theatre artist, and motivational speaker. Based in Dharmaj, Gujarat, she is best known for founding Dhunn – The Petting Farm, a sanctuary dedicated to the education and rehabilitation of exotic and domestic animals. Her humanitarian efforts, particularly in wildlife rescue and environmental awareness, have garnered national recognition.

Biography

Early Life and Education

Born in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Archana Patel exhibited early interests in literature, culture, and animal care. After graduating from Little Flower School, she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Indian Culture from Gujarat University in 1996. Her academic journey extended into healthcare, where she completed a Diploma in Nursing from Ahmedabad Para Medical College.

To support her passion for veterinary aid, she pursued several short courses through international platforms including VETMEDUX and Clinician’s Brief, focusing on small animal care and exotic species management.

Career

Cultural Arts and Theatre

Dr. Patel began her professional journey in the late 1980s through regional theatre and television. She became a familiar face in Gujarati stage productions, local serials, and cultural festivals, earning acclaim for her emotive performances and community engagement. As a writer, she contributed essays, short stories, and columns that explore themes such as compassion, nature, and women’s resilience.

Animal Welfare and Dhunn Petting Farm

Dr. Patel’s most celebrated work is through Dhunn – The Petting Farm, a one-of-a-kind sanctuary in Dharmaj that hosts over 350 animals across 48 species. The farm is not only a haven for rescued animals—including reptiles, birds, and strays—but also serves as an educational platform, welcoming school visits and workshops promoting compassion for animals.

Through the Dhunn Charitable Trust, she has facilitated numerous rescue operations and rehabilitation drives in collaboration with veterinarians and wildlife organizations. Her rescue work, especially involving reptiles and stray species, has been instrumental in fostering local awareness about animal rights and safety.

Motivational Speaking and Social Advocacy

Dr. Patel is also a sought-after speaker who frequently addresses schools, universities, and rural youth forums. Her motivational talks cover diverse topics such as animal-human coexistence, youth empowerment, mental wellness, and sustainable living. She believes in fostering empathy and community-driven responsibility among the next generation.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Archana Patel has been the recipient of numerous accolades for her extensive contributions:

Rashtriya Pratishtha Puraskar – For excellence in animal welfare and social service
Indian Visionary Award – For promoting education and cultural development
Reptile Rescuer Award – Honoring her efforts in reptile rescue and advocacy

Honorary Doctorates from:

HDAC (2024)
AMC India (2024)
World Council of Education, Peace and Culture (WCEPC) (2025)

Personal Life

Dr. Patel resides in Dharmaj, Gujarat, where she continues to operate the Dhunn Petting Farm and engage in writing, mentoring, and community upliftment initiatives. Her life’s mission is to bridge the gap between human compassion and animal care.