The Origins of Current Indian Punjabis of Pakistani Punjabi Descent

The historical and cultural links between Indian and Pakistani Punjabis have shaped significant communities that are deeply intertwined. This article explores the origins and distributions of the Khatri, Arora, and Jatt communities within present-day Indian Punjab, which hark back to their roots in Western and Western Punjab.

Khatri Community

The Khatri community, predominantly Hindu and Sikh, has a significant presence in both Indian and Pakistani Punjab. Approximately 70% of the Khatri community in current Indian Punjab is originally from Western Punjab. Specifically, the Pothwar region, around Rawalpindi, and the Majha region have been historically the main areas of their native origin.

Arora Community

The Aroras, who are also predominantly Hindu and Sikh, have a more extensive geographical spread across Punjab. About 90% of the Arora community in Indian Punjab has origins in Western Punjab, predominantly in the Saraiki belt. This region includes districts like Multan, Jhang, Bahawalpur, and Muzaffargarh. According to the 1931 census, the Aroras constituted a significant portion of the population in united Punjab. The distribution is as follows:

Saraiki Belt: 4.1 lakh Aroras Pakistani Majha belt (Lahore, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Lyallpur): 1.2 lakh Aroras Pothwar: 1 lakh Aroras Indian Punjab (mainly Amritsar, Ferozpur): 64 thousand Aroras

Jatt Community

The Jatt community, predominantly Sikh, has substantial origins in Western Punjab as well. Approximately 50% of the Jatts in present-day Indian Punjab trace their roots back to areas in the Pakistani Majha belt, such as Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, and Lyallpur. Notably, the main Jatt gotras (clans) in these regions are Sandhu, Bajwa, Virk, and Brar.

Geographical Distribution of Jatt Gotras

Sandhus: Majorly from Sialkot and Gujranwala regions Bajwas: Predominantly from Sialkot and Lahore Virks: Majorly from Gujranwala and Sheikhupura Brars: Predominantly from Lyallpur and Sahiwal

Conclusion

The intricate history and continued migration between Indian and Pakistani Punjab have led to the integral presence of Pakistani Punjabi communities in present-day Indian Punjab. These communities, whether Khatri, Arora, or Jatt, carry the cultural and historical weight of Western Punjab, blending traditions and interpersonal ties across the international border.

Understanding these historical origins is crucial for comprehending the cultural and social fabric of the Punjab region, providing insights into the diverse and interconnected nature of Punjabi communities.