Ahmedabad: A shopkeeper in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, won plenty of praise when he handed back a lost wallet containing cash, credit cards, and personal documents to an American tourist. The event that occurred on May 21, 2025, highlights the importance of true values and unity in Indian cities, especially in busy markets.
While enjoying the bustling Law Garden Night Market in Ahmedabad, California tourist James Carter dropped his wallet in the crowd after purchasing some handicrafts. He carried around $200 in cash, credit cards, a photocopy of his passport and personal belongings. Because he had lost his wallet and didn’t notice it yet, Carter continued his evening until the caller from the hotel mentioned that it had been returned to him.
A stall selling traditional Gujarati clothing at the market is run by 42-year-old Rajesh Patel. Patel found the wallet beneath his stall after he had closed it for business. Handled with urgency, he phoned the police and gave them details of the found wallet to help identify the person who owns it. Carter’s wallet was returned to him by market vendors and hotel owners just hours later, completely fine.
He told a local news source, “I felt so grateful.” I wasn’t prepared to get my wallet back so quickly. Rajesh’s honesty and how everyone backed me up really displayed the warmth of Chennai.
Patel, who is the father of two and has worked at the market for fifteen years, refused to call his actions noteworthy. He said it is what he believes in. If the circumstances were different, I would have desired the same outcome for my family or myself. He reportedly said, “It’s just a matter of doing what’s fair.” Carter offered something, but Patel didn’t want it and asked the man to visit his stall the next day for tea.
A fellow merchant captured the incident and posted it to social media, with Carter warmly thanking Patel and shaking hands with him. With thousands of people liking and sharing it, viewers praised and honoured Ahmedabad for being so hospitable.
They thanked Patel for taking quick action and added that it helps the community trust the police. Frankly telling the truth and effective teamwork made this a special case, Sub-Inspector Anil Sharma said. We invite all members of our community to act responsibly.
Tourism officials in Ahmedabad used the occasion to highlight the city’s friendly atmosphere. The spokesperson for the Gujarat Tourism Board noted, “People around the world value Gujarat as a favourite travel spot because of instances where they feel reaffirmed in its people’s kindness and care.”
This episode is being released when Gujarat is encouraging tourism, especially in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Ahmedabad, renowned for its rich culture and busy Law Garden market. Despite rapid urban growth, people remember India as a place where loving and ethical relationships endure.
Mike Carter lost his wallet in Ahmedabad while on a one-month trip to India, but a shopkeeper named Rajesh helped him get it back. I’m in love with India! After Patel posted, people praised him and shared their acts of kindness from different parts of the country.