Khokhar

Khokhar is a Punjabi clan and surname used by communities in the Indian subcontinent. The group is found in both Pakistan and India, with historic ties to the Punjab region. Across sources, Khokhars have been described as Jat, Rajput, or simply as a distinct Punjabi clan, reflecting regional variation in identity through time.

Origins and distribution: The exact origins of the Khokhar are debated. Early references describe a Punjabi lineage associated with landholding and local leadership in Punjab. In Pakistan, Khokhars are concentrated in the Punjab plain, with settlements in districts such as Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, and Sialkot. In India, Khokhar communities are present in the Indian Punjab and neighboring areas, including urban centers and parts of the broader north Indian belt. Religious composition varies by region: in Pakistan, many Khokhars are Muslim; in India, Khokhar groups may be Hindu or Muslim depending on locality and history of conversion.

History: In medieval Punjab, Khokhars appear in regional records as local rulers, landholders and influential families. They are mentioned in connection with the diverse political dynamics of the Punjab region, including interactions with major powers of the era. Over time, Khokhar communities diversified into agrarian, commercial and professional roles, contributing to local administration, trade and public life.

Culture and identity: Khokhar social organization is typically clan-based, with kin networks and lineage traditions shaping marriage and alliance patterns. The Punjabi language is common among Khokhar communities, and practices reflect the broader cultural diversity of the Punjab region.