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Draft:Khanna (Surname)

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Khanna
Language(s)Punjabi
Origin
Word/nameKhatri caste, Kshatriya lineage
MeaningOne-quarter (Punjabi), mine or quarry (Sanskrit)
Region of originPunjab, India
Part of the Dhai Ghar sub-group of Khatri Hindus

Khanna is a prominent surname among the Punjabi Hindu and Sikh communities, primarily associated with the Khatri caste. As part of the Dhai Ghar sub-group, alongside Kapoor and Malhotra families, Khannas hold a prestigious position within the Khatri community, known for their historical roles as warriors, traders, and administrators. The clan claims descent from a common ancestor, Khan Chand, and traces its origins to the Kshatriya warrior class, with possible connections to the Agnivansh Rajput clans and the Suryavanshi lineage of Lord Rama.[1] The Khanna surname reflects a rich legacy of martial valor, economic enterprise, and cultural contributions, particularly in Punjab and its global diaspora.

Etymology and origin

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The surname Khanna has dual linguistic roots. In Punjabi, "Khanna" means "one-quarter," possibly referring to a historical land division or administrative unit. In Sanskrit, "Khana" translates to "mine" or "quarry," suggesting a connection to resource management or territorial control.[1] Some scholars propose that Khanna derives from "Khand," a Rajput clan name, linking it to the Agnivansh lineage, which includes Chauhan and Parmar dynasties. The clan's inclusion in the Dhai Ghar—a prestigious Khatri sub-group—underscores its elite status, with historical marriage alliances reinforcing social prominence. Linguistic variations are rare, though minor spellings like "Khana" appear in some diaspora communities.

History

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The Khanna clan's history is deeply entwined with the Khatri community's evolution, rooted in the Kshatriya warrior tradition of northwest India. Their narrative spans centuries, from ancient Rajput origins to modern global influence, marked by resilience and adaptability.

Pre-Mughal era

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Khannas claim descent from Khan Chand, a semi-legendary 13th-century Rajput leader, though primary sources are scarce.[1] As part of the Agnivansh Rajputs, they likely served as warriors or feudatories under regional kingdoms in Punjab and Rajasthan.[2] Oral traditions link them to the Suryavanshi lineage of Lord Rama, a claim common among Kshatriya clans but unsupported by historical records. While no Khanna kings are documented, their martial heritage aligns with Khatri roles in pre-Mughal Punjab.

Mughal era (1526–1857)

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Under Mughal rule, Khatris, including Khannas, transitioned from warriors to administrators and traders, leveraging their literacy and organizational skills.[3] Khannas likely served as revenue officers or scribes in Punjab, managing trade routes between Delhi and Central Asia. Some may have joined Mughal armies as cavalry or logistics officers, though specific names are absent from chronicles.[4] The city of Khanna in Ludhiana may have been named after a Khanna ancestor, reflecting their regional influence.[5]

Sikh Empire (1799–1849)

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In the Sikh Empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Khannas excelled as treasurers, grain merchants, and military suppliers. Their role in provisioning the Khalsa army was critical, with some Khannas possibly serving as officers in artillery or logistics units. The growth of Khanna city as a trade hub, now home to Asia’s largest grain market, underscores their economic contributions. While no prominent Khanna generals are recorded, their administrative prowess strengthened Punjab’s economy.

British era (1857–1947)

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Under British rule, Khannas adapted to colonial systems, excelling in education, law, and commerce. Many joined the Indian Civil Service or established trading firms, dealing in textiles and grains.[6] Some Khannas supported the Indian National Congress, contributing to the independence movement through funding or advocacy. The Partition of 1947 displaced many Khannas from West Punjab (now Pakistan) to India, forcing them to rebuild in cities like Delhi and Amritsar.[1] Their resilience is evident in their rapid re-establishment in trade and industry.

Post-independence and modern era

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Post-1947, Khannas emerged as leaders in diverse fields. In entertainment, Rajesh Khanna redefined Bollywood stardom, while Vinod Khanna balanced acting and politics.[7] In politics, figures like Ro Khanna (U.S.) and Arvind Khanna (Punjab) shaped policy. Business leaders like Vipin Khanna and Sanjay Khanna drove industrial growth. The global diaspora, particularly in the U.S., Canada, and U.K., has amplified Khanna influence, with professionals in technology, academia, and arts.[1] Despite their achievements, claims of clan superiority are debated, as Aroras and Jats also hold significant influence in Punjab.

Role in Khatri community and Punjab

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The Khanna clan’s status within the Dhai Ghar—comprising Khanna, Kapoor, and Malhotra families—grants them social prestige among Khatris. Historically, Dhai Ghar families maintained exclusive marriage alliances, reinforcing their elite identity.[1] This practice, while less rigid today, underscores their cultural distinctiveness. In Punjab, Khannas have driven economic growth through trade, agriculture, and industry, with Khanna city’s grain market symbolizing their legacy. Their cultural contributions include patronage of Punjabi arts, music, and festivals like Baisakhi and Diwali.[1] The clan’s dual Hindu-Sikh identity reflects Punjab’s syncretic traditions, with many Khannas venerating both Guru Nanak and Hindu deities.

Notable people

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The Khanna surname is associated with a wide array of individuals across multiple domains, from global politics to regional contributions. Below is a comprehensive list, including both highly prominent figures and those with verifiable mentions in trusted sources.

Entertainment

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  • Rajesh Khanna (1942–2012), Bollywood actor and politician, India’s first superstar, known for *Anand* and *Namak Haram*.[8][9][10]
  • Vinod Khanna (1946–2017), Bollywood actor and politician, Dadasaheb Phalke Award recipient, known for *Mera Gaon Mera Desh*.[11][12][13]
  • Twinkle Khanna (born 1974), author and former actress, known for *Mrs Funnybones* and *Mela*.[14][15][16]
  • Rinke Khanna (born 1977), former actress, known for *Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi*.
  • Akshaye Khanna (born 1975), Bollywood actor, known for *Dil Chahta Hai* and *Chhaava*.[17][18][19]
  • Rahul Khanna (born 1972), actor, known for *Earth* and *The Americans*.
  • Raashii Khanna (born 1990), actress in Telugu and Tamil cinema, known for *Tholi Prema*.
  • Mukesh Khanna (born 1958), actor and producer, known for *Shaktimaan* and *Mahabharat*.[20]
  • Chahatt Khanna (born 1986), TV actress, known for *Bade Achhe Lagte Hain*.[21][22][23]
  • Ragini Khanna (born 1987), TV actress, known for *Sasural Genda Phool* and *The Kapil Sharma Show*.[24][25][26]
  • Ruhana Khanna (born 2008), child actress, known for *Gangaa*.
  • Namit Khanna (born 1989), actor, known for *Yeh Pyaar Nahi Toh Kya Hai*.
  • Smriti Khanna (born 1988), TV actress, known for *Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi*.

Politics

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Military

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  • Vipin Khanna (1930–2019), Indian Army Major, later businessman.[32]
  • Ravi Khanna (born 1935), Lieutenant Colonel, Indian Army, later businessman.

Judiciary

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Culinary

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Sports

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  • Anil Khanna (born 1958), sports administrator, president of Asian Tennis Federation.[35]
  • Dinesh Khanna (born 1943), former badminton champion, Arjuna Awardee (1965).[36]

Business

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  • Vipin Khanna (1930–2019), financier and arms dealer, founded Dynamic Sales Service International.
  • Ravi Khanna (born 1935), businessman in alcohol industry, Clan Morgan Holdings.
  • Arvind Khanna (born 1967), founder of TSL Defence Technologies.
  • Anil Khanna (born 1958), real estate and hospitality entrepreneur.[35]
  • Dinesh Khanna (born 1960), founder of Khanna Jewellers.[37]
  • Rakesh Khanna (born 1962), CEO of Rico Auto Industries.[38]

Literature

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  • Meera Khanna (born 1950), poet and essayist, published in Sahitya Akademi journals.[39]

Science/Technology

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Cultural significance

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Khannas are integral to Punjabi cultural traditions, celebrating festivals like Baisakhi, Diwali, and Lohri with fervor.[1] Their cuisine, including dishes like *Makke di Roti* and *Sarson da Saag*, reflects Punjab’s agrarian roots. Many Khannas practice a syncretic Hindu-Sikh identity, attending gurdwaras and temples, embodying Punjab’s pluralistic ethos.[1] The global Khanna diaspora, particularly in the U.S., Canada, and U.K., has promoted Punjabi music, dance (e.g., Bhangra), and literature, strengthening cultural ties. Their contributions to Bollywood, technology, and politics have elevated Punjab’s global profile.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Khanna Surname & Gotra". AroraKhatri. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  2. ^ Griffin, Lepel (1890). The Punjab Chiefs. Lahore: Government Press. pp. 45–50.
  3. ^ Singh, Patwant (2001). The Sikhs. New York: Knopf. pp. 30–35. ISBN 978-0-375-40728-4.
  4. ^ Gupta, Hari Ram (1978). History of the Sikhs. Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal. pp. 100–105. ISBN 978-81-215-0248-1.
  5. ^ "History of Khanna". KhannaOnline.in. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  6. ^ "Punjab's Trading Communities". The Hindu. 1940-06-15. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  7. ^ Bose, Mihir (2006). Bollywood: A History. London: Tempus. pp. 200–210. ISBN 978-0-7524-3843-6.
  8. ^ a b "Rajesh Khanna: The politician and the phenomenon". Hindustan Times. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  9. ^ a b "Here's why Rajesh Khanna wanted to participate in 'Bigg Boss'". The Times of India. March 29, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  10. ^ a b "Amitabh Bachchan Said He Became Important After Anand Due To Rajesh Khanna: 'People Asked Me How He Looked...'". News18.
  11. ^ a b "Election 2014 results: Actor-politician Vinod Khanna leads". The Economic Times. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  12. ^ a b "Osho urged Vinod Khanna to join politics and challenge Amitabh Bachchan in elections: 'It was also about losing his place in Bollywood'". The Times of India. April 9, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  13. ^ a b "Osho advised Vinod Khanna to challenge Amitabh Bachchan in politics after actor complained he was missing his kids: 'He was envious of Big B's success'". April 9, 2025.
  14. ^ "Twinkle Khanna reveals she started dating Akshay Kumar thinking it would be a 15-day fling: 'I was really bored. And there he was...'". The Times of India. April 23, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  15. ^ "Twinkle Khanna Makes Acting Comeback, RECREATES Akshay Kumar's Rowdy Rathore Dailogue In Viral Video". Times Now. March 7, 2025.
  16. ^ "Akshay Kumar & Twinkle Khanna: From co-stars to soulmates; read the beautiful love story of the two actors". The Times of India. March 4, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  17. ^ "After 'Chhaava' Akshaye Khanna to make Telugu debut with Prasanth Varma's superhero film 'Mahakali'". The Times of India. April 6, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  18. ^ "Akshaye Khanna to debut in Telugu with HanuMan director's female superhero film Mahakali; here's what we know". Hindustan Times. 6 April 2025.
  19. ^ "Akshaye Khanna and Karisma Kapoor were on the verge of getting married; here's what went wrong". The Times of India. March 29, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  20. ^ "Mukesh Khanna speaks out on the forgotten Jallianwala Bagh genocide in India's history books". The Times of India. April 22, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  21. ^ "Chahatt Khanna on conversion controversy". India.com. 2025-04-23. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  22. ^ "Meet Hindu actress, who converted to Islam for marriage, later accused her husband of beating her, said she was brainwashed". www.india.com.
  23. ^ "'वो मुझे अपनी गोद में बिठाते थे...' टीवी एक्ट्रेस का छलका सालों पुराना दर्द, किया चौंकाने वाला खुलासा". News18 हिंदी. April 11, 2025.
  24. ^ "Ragini Khanna on multi-faith beliefs". India.com. 2025-03-05. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  25. ^ "Ragini Khanna recalls quitting The Kapil Sharma Show because she didn't want to play the 'hot girl'; says 'If you don't objectify the leading lady...'". The Times of India. March 13, 2025 – via The Economic Times - The Times of India.
  26. ^ "'I have faith in...': Meet star actor's niece, who is a Hindu, but believes in THIS religion, her name is..." www.india.com.
  27. ^ Sharma, Swastika Das. "'There should be no retaliation': Ro Khanna's stern message to Pakistan army chief Asim Munir after Operation Sindoor | Today News". mint.
  28. ^ News, A. B. C. "Rep. Ro Khanna eyes anti-corruption agenda amid criticism of Democratic Party". ABC News. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  29. ^ https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/ro-khanna-rich-mccormick-to-co-chair-india-caucus-in-new-us-congress-125013000025_1.html
  30. ^ "BJP leader Avinash Khanna to join AAP". The Times of India. 2022-02-15. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  31. ^ "Manish Khanna community work". Hindustan Times. 2023-06-05. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  32. ^ a b Rajagopal, Krishnadas (May 8, 2025). "Justice Varma cash allegation row: CJI Khanna shares inquiry report with President, PM Modi". The Hindu – via www.thehindu.com.
  33. ^ "Justice Sanjiv Khanna". Drishti Judiciary. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  34. ^ "Vikas Khanna". AroraKhatri. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  35. ^ a b "Anil Khanna elected Asian Tennis Federation president". Business Standard. 2018-09-18. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  36. ^ "Dinesh Khanna badminton". The Hindu. 2019-08-20. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  37. ^ "Khanna Jewellers legacy". Forbes India. 2022-11-10. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  38. ^ "Rakesh Khanna Rico Auto". The Economic Times. 2024-03-15. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  39. ^ "Meera Khanna Partition poetry". The Indian Express. 2020-08-15. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
  40. ^ "Rohit Khanna CERN contributions". Nature. 2023-02-10. Retrieved 2025-05-17.
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Category:Khatri surnames Category:Punjabi culture Category:Surnames of Indian origin

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