Gujaratis are now emerging as a significant political group in Canada, joining Punjabis, who have long-held influence in the country’s political landscape. As more people of Indian origin continue to establish themselves in Canada, where federal elections are set to occur later this month, the Indian diaspora is becoming increasingly prominent. The Indian-Canadian community is diverse, including Punjabis, Gujaratis, Bengalis, and Malayalis. While many migrants from India are students or skilled professionals, Punjabis and Gujaratis often come from business backgrounds.

For the past twenty years, Punjabis have been the leading Indian-origin group involved in Canadian politics. But in the 2025 elections, Gujaratis are stepping into the political spotlight for the first time. Cities like Brampton in Ontario and Calgary in Alberta, both with large Indian-Canadian populations, have become key areas to watch, with four Gujarati-origin candidates now in the race for seats in Parliament.

Most Gujarati-origin candidates running in the upcoming Canadian election are first-generation immigrants. While Punjabis still hold a strong edge due to their larger population, established political presence, and history of electing MPs and even Cabinet ministers, Gujaratis have spent years building their influence at the grassroots level. Their entrepreneurship and community service focus has helped them grow in social leadership roles. In Canada’s 45th federal election, set for April 28, 2025, four Indian Canadians of Gujarati origin are in the race: Jayesh Brahmbhatt, Sunjiv Raval, Ashok Patel and Minesh Patel.

Jayesh Brahmbhatt is contesting from Brampton Chinguacousy Park. He moved to Canada from India in 2001 and has a background in civil engineering. Over time, he built a successful career in real estate development. After living in Canada for nearly 25 years, he decided to enter politics and is now running as a candidate for the People's Party. In an interview with the Times of India,

Brahmbhatt expressed, "We stand for freedom, responsibility, fairness and respect for all, and somewhere it resonates with me". He shared his confidence about winning the upcoming elections, noting, "I have spoken to a lot of people, and they seek change from this election." He also acknowledged the growing influence of the Indian community in Canada, along with its various regional groups. Brahmbhatt pointed out, "Political parties in Canada are now identifying Indians as an important community in the political arena, and sub-groups such as Gujaratis are making the most of this opportunity to be represented and be heard."

Sunjiv Raval, an Indian-Canadian of Gujarati heritage, is running for parliament from Calgary. A successful entrepreneur, he owns a chain of retail stores. Having settled in Calgary over two decades ago,  Raval has been deeply engaged in community service and has played an active role in various Indian community organisations.

Raval acknowledged that the rising cost of living is a major concern for many Canadians. He stated, "We are fighting on issues faced by the middle class, who have been demanding better infrastructure and sports facilities, affordable housing and work opportunities for all." He also addressed immigration as another key political topic, emphasising the need for a thoughtful approach. "The country needs immigrants, but there must be a balance. We hope to restore it with the right policies. We have a voice now," he expressed.

Ashok Patel has become the third person of Gujarati origin to contest the upcoming Canadian elections this month. Along with Minesh Patel, who is the fourth Gujarati entering the political fray, both are running as Independent candidates. Ashok is contesting from Edmonton Sherwood, while Minesh has submitted his nomination for Calgary Skyview. Coming from business backgrounds, both candidates now hope to give back to society by stepping into public service. Another Gujarati, Don Patel, a well-known realtor from Anand, was briefly considered by the Conservative Party of Canada as a candidate from Etobicoke North. However, he didn’t make it to the final list of nominees.

This development signals a significant change in the political representation of the Indian community in Canada. While Punjabis previously led the space, the growing presence of Gujaratis brings a new layer of diversity. Rather than replacing Punjabi voices, Gujaratis are expanding the Indian community’s influence in Canadian politics. Their involvement is seen as a positive step, introducing a wider range of cultural perspectives into policymaking.

In an interview with the Times of India about the growing influence of Gujaratis in Canadian politics, Hemant Shah, Director of International Trade at Overseas Friends of India Canada (OFIC), said he had anticipated this development. According to him, it's not something unexpected. He said,  "Canada is home to more than 1 lakh Gujaratis. The community is present in almost all major cities, but more so in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary and Vancouver. Many came to the country as immigrants, whereas many more arrived as students and settled here. I have been in Canada for over four decades now, and in this election, we are perhaps witnessing the highest number of candidates of Gujarati origin. Irrespective of their win, it is a significant step in ensuring representation of the community, which is the second largest after Punjabis."

Punjabi representation in Canadian politics has been quite significant for some time. Among the well-known figures are Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the New Democratic Party and the first Sikh to lead a national political party in Canada; Anita Anand, who currently serves as the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry; Kamal Khera, who holds the position of Minister of Health; Sukh Dhaliwal, a Member of Parliament with the Liberal Party; and Bardish Chagger, who previously served as the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Youth.