https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Inderjeet-Singh-21

Heritage of Punjab & Sindh, Derby (2026)

30/05/2026

DIFFERENT COMMUNITIES IN PUNJAB, INDIA

Top 10 largest caste in every district of PUNJAB

Punjab on the basis of caste demography is a very diverse area. People outside punjab only know jatt but besides that we have 30 more castes present in the state of Punjab

Order of top castes in Punjab districts is as follows
🔻
AMRITSAR -- jatt, mazhabi, khatri/arora, brahmin, jheer, tarkhan, kamboj, ravidasia, mahajan, sunar

TARN TARAN -- jatt, mazhabi, tarkhan, jheer, khatri/arora, kamboj, brahmin, ravidasia, mahajan, sunar

GURDASPUR -- jatt, mazhabi/balmiki, brahmin, jheer, ravidasia, khatri/arora, mahajan, rajput, saini, dumna, megh

PATHANKOT -- rajput, brahmin, dumna, mahajan, jheer, ravidasia, megh, khatri/arora, saini, tarkhan

KAPURTHALA -- jatt, mazhabi/balmiki, ravidasia, kamboj, lubhana, saini, rajput, khatri/arora, brahmin, tarkhan

JALANDHAR -- ravidasia, jatt, balmiki/mazhabi, khatri/arora, brahmin, rajput, saini, kamboj, lubhana, tarkhan

HOSHIARPUR -- ravidasia, jatt, brahmin, rajput, saini, girith/chang, khatri/arora, tarkhan, balmiki, lubhana, gurjar

NAWASHAHR -- ravidasia, jatt, saini, gurjar, rajput, brahmin, balmiki, tarkhan, khatri/arora, julaha

RUPNAGAR -- ravidasia, jatt, rajput, saini, brahmin, gurjar, tarkhan, balmiki, khatri/arora, julaha

MOHALI -- jatt, ravidasia, saini, rajput, khatri/arora, brahmin, bania, balmiki, kamboj, gurjar

PATIALA -- jatt, ravidasia, mazhabi, kamboj, bania, khatri/arora, brahmin, saini, rajput, tarkhan, bazigar

FATEHGARH S -- jatt, ravidasia, mazhabi, saini, rajput, brahmin, bania, khatri/arora, tarkhan, bazigar, julaha

LUDHIANA -- jatt, ravidasia, mazhabi, khatri/arora, brahmin, bania, rajput, tarkhan, saini, sunar

MALERKOTLA -- jatt, ravidasia, kamboh, rajput, gurjar, mazhabi, arain, bania, brahmin, tarkhan

SANGRUR -- jatt, ravidasia, mazhabi, kamboj, bania, brahmin, khatri/arora, tarkhan, bazigar, saini

MANSA -- jatt, mazhabi, ravidasia, bania, brahmin, tarkhan, khatri/arora, kamboj, bazigar, dhanak

BARNALA -- jatt, ravidasia, mazhabi, bania, brahmin, tarkhan, khatri/arora, sunar, bazigar, sikriband

MOGA -- jatt, mazhabi, ravidasia, tarkhan, kamboj, bania, khatri/arora, bawariya, brahmin, saini

FARIDKOT -- jatt, mazhabi, tarkhan, ravidasia, khatri/arora, bania, brahmin, bawariya, sunar, bazigar

BATHINDA -- jatt, mazhabi, ravidasia, bania, khatri/arora, brahmin, tarkhan, sunar, bawariya, bazigar, dhanak

MUKTSAR -- jatt, mazhabi, ravidasia, kamboj, khatri/arora, bania, tarkhan, bawariya, brahmin, dhanak

FIROZPUR -- jatt, raisikh(mahtam), kamboj, mazhabi, khatri/arora, bania, brahmin, ravidasia, sunar, sansi

FAZILKA -- raisikh(mahtam), bagri-jaat, kamboj, balmiki/mazhabi, khatri/arora, sikriband, meghwal, bania, brahmin, bawariya, dhana.

Courtesy: Devil Maps

27/05/2026

FIVE-TIME OLYMPIAN, ASIAN GAMES GOLD MEDALLIST FROM PATIALA RAJA RANDHIR SINGH PASSES AWAY AT 79 (TRIBUNE Report)

A renowned shooter and cousin of former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Randhir Singh belonged to the fourth generation of a distinguished sporting family from Patiala.

Five-time Olympian, Asian Games gold medallist, former Arjuna Awardee and veteran sports administrator Raja Randhir Singh passed away on Wednesday. He was 79.

A renowned shooter and cousin of former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, Randhir Singh belonged to the fourth generation of a distinguished sporting family from Punjab's Patiala. His uncle, Maharaja Yadavindra Singh, represented India in Test cricket, while his father, Raja Bhalindra Singh, served as a member of the Indian Olympic Committee from 1947 to 1992.

Known for his blunt and forthright style as an administrator, Randhir Singh represented India in shooting at five Olympic Games — Mexico 1968, Munich 1972, Montreal 1976, Moscow 1980 and Los Angeles 1984. He was also named a reserve shooter for the Tokyo 1964 Olympics.

He also represented India at the Asian Games in Bangkok (1978), New Delhi (1982), Seoul (1986) and Hiroshima (1994), besides competing at the Commonwealth Games in Edmonton in 1978.
Among his major achievements, Randhir Singh won a gold medal at the 1978 Bangkok Asian Games and secured bronze (individual) and silver (team) medals at the 1982 New Delhi Asian Games.

Over the decades, he held several key positions in Indian and international sports administration. He served as Honorary Secretary General of the Indian Olympic Association (1987-2014), Secretary General of the Olympic Council of Asia (1991-2015), and was a member of the International Olympic Committee from 2001 to 2014 before becoming an honorary member.

He also served on various IOC commissions and represented the IOC on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Foundation Board. In addition, he held positions with the Sports Authority of India, the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) and the Afro-Asian Games Council, among several other sporting bodies.
“With deep sorrow, we share the sad news of the passing of Raja Randhir Singh, who left for his heavenly abode today. A distinguished Olympian, Arjuna Awardee and one of the most respected sports administrators in India, Asia, and the International Olympic Committee, Raja Randhir Singh made invaluable contributions to the development of shooting sports and the Olympic movement. The National Rifle Association of India and the entire shooting fraternity mourn this irreparable loss and extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,” read a message shared across the Indian shooting fraternity.

18/05/2026

KULWINDER SINGH JOHAL BECOMES LEICESTER’S FIRST TURBANED SIKH LORD MAYOR IN ENGLAND

A new chapter has been written in the political history of Leicester, widely known as Mini India in England, as for the first time an Amritdhari Punjabi Sikh has been honoured with the position of Lord Mayor of Leicester City Council. Councillor Kulwinder Singh Johal has officially taken office as Leicester first fully turbaned Amritdhari Sikh Lord Mayor. His ceremonial inauguration took place at Leicester Town Hall in the presence of dignitaries, community leaders and members of the Punjabi and Sikh communities, who celebrated the occasion with great pride and enthusiasm.

Kulwinder Singh Johal originally belongs to village Tehang near Phillaur in Jalandhar district, Punjab. He moved to England with his family at a young age. His father Jasvir Singh Johal and mother Tarsem Kaur Johal instilled in him the values of hard work, humility and community service. He completed his education in Leicester and later worked for around 25 years at Russell Castings Limited.
During his working years, he actively supported workers rights and remained closely connected with community welfare activities. Inspired by Sikh principles of seva and equality, he devoted many years to religious and social service. He served for several years as General Secretary of Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Leicester. In 2002, during the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to the Gurdwara, he played an important role in organising the arrangements and introducing the Queen to Sikh history and traditions.

Johal has also made significant contributions in the field of sports and youth development. He played a leading role in developing GNG Football Club and encouraging young people to participate in sports and positive community activities. His efforts have been widely appreciated within the local community.

Living in the Braunstone Park and Rowley Fields areas of Leicester, Kulwinder Singh Johal has long been recognised for his dedication to helping people from all backgrounds. His simple lifestyle, direct connection with local residents and willingness to support everyone earned him respect across the city. In 2015, he was elected as a Labour Party councillor for the first time and has continued to win elections and serve the community since then. (As reported by Punjab Times)

16/05/2026

ROHRI, SINDH 1860

As per the folklore this is ‘Sateen Jo Aastan’ or the final resting place for the Seven Female-friends. The fear of a tyrannical raja resulted in their disappearance, possibly in a cave in the side of a hill. Thus, they became Sati hence the name. But it seems more like Jauhar instead of Sati. Scores of women visit this place every day for its mysterious healing power.
https://tribune.com.pk/story/151531/satiyan-jo-asthan-ailing-women-flock-to-rohris-seven-sisters/

This is also the burial place of a ruler from Sukkur, Mir Abu Al-Qasim Namkeen (1553). The tomb complex was ordered to be built by him. It was constructed in the ochre stone similar to that used in the necropolis of Makli Hill. Inscriptions and Quranic verses in the finest Naskh script adorn the walls and interior of these structures.
In the front part of the photo one can see the small mosque and in the far end we can see the Bukkur fortress.

Courtesy: British Library & Dewa Sikander Singh Veerji was identifying the place.

12/05/2026

SINDHI HINDU JEWELLER 1928

Portrait of a jeweller in his shop in Hyderabad (Sindh) c. 1928. The jeweller is more likely to be Hindu as he is wearing dhoti, has a stick moustache and no beard. All the above points towards this. Hyderabad was Hindu majority city in Sindh as per 1941 census. 27% of the Sindh’s population was Hindu as per 1941 Census. As per last census in 2017, the Hindus constitute 8.73% of Sindh’s population.

Courtesy: Old Indian Photos website

10/05/2026

SIKHS IN BALOCHISTAN, STORY OF PROCURING JANGNAMA QAZI NUR MOHD 1906

In search of a Gurdwara dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Sardar Karam Singh Historian went to Makran and returned to Sindh. Here he was made aware that the Khan of Kalat has an old manuscript which has important information on Sikhs. Karam Singh went to Rai Bahadur Sardar Sadhu Singh at Sibbi in February 1906. By next month the copy of the manuscript was delivered to them at Quetta. Sardar Karam Singh later translated the Persian manuscript Jangnama by Qazi Nur Mohd in Punjabi. Qazi Nur Mohd was eye witnessed to battles between Sikhs and Ahmad Shah Abdali in 1764. Qazi was with the Baloch chief who had joined the Durrani ruler.

06/05/2026

HINDU & SIKH KAMBOJ IN PUNJAB, INDIA

Kamboj (or Kamboh) in Punjab, India, are a prominent, traditionally agricultural community with both Hindu and Sikh followers, known for their landownership, progressive farming, and high reputation in military service. They are considered descendants of the ancient Kamboja tribe, often found in regions like Fazilka, Firozpur, and surrounding areas.

Demographics & Religion: In the 1931 census of British Punjab, Kambojs were identified as 42.4% Sikh and 16.1% Hindu (along with 41.5% Muslim, who mostly migrated to Pakistan). They represented approximately 0.6% to 0.7% of the total population of the Punjab province at that time. In modern Indian Punjab, both communities coexist, with significant populations in border districts.

Profession & Farming: Kamboj are renowned agriculturists and are often associated with high-yielding, progressive farming. They hold a reputation for being hard-working and persistent, often holding titles like Krishi Pandit.

Culture & Intermarriage: Hindu and Sikh Kamboj often share cultural similarities and have intermarried. Both communities generally adhere to the same community structures and social customs, distinct from other landowning castes like Jatt or Saini.

Geographical Concentration: While they are widespread across Punjab and Haryana, major pockets of the community are found in the Firozpur, Fazilka, Kapurthala and Patiala districts.

History: The Kamboj believe in their origins in ancient Hindu texts (Mahabharata) and hold a history as a warrior clan. In modern times, they have become a well-settled and influential community within the agricultural sector of the state.

Courtesy: Devil Maps

04/05/2026

SAINIS IN PUNJAB, INDIA

Sainis in Punjab, India, are said to be a warrior -turned - agricultural community of Yaduvanshi Rajput origin, found across both Hindu and Sikh faiths. They are predominantly concentrated in the sub-mountainous Doaba and Majha regions, including Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Nawanshahr, Ropar, and Gurdaspur, known for being industrious farmers and having high literacy rates.

Key Aspects of Saini Community:Origins: They claim descent from the ancient Yaduvanshi Surasena dynasty, particularly through King Shoorsen, the grandfather of Krishna. Historical accounts sometimes equate their ancestors with the ancient warrior tribe Sourasenoi (or Shuraseni), and they are considered descendants of the kings of the Surasena lineage who moved to Punjab to avoid forced conversion.

Religion and Tradition: Saini communities exist within both Hinduism and Sikhism. The Sikh Saini tradition is heavily influenced by the teachings of Guru Nanak and other Gurus, often practicing similar social customs as Hindu Sainis while being initiated into the Khalsa tradition.

Regional Concentration: While found across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, their main strongholds are the sub-mountainous districts where they own numerous villages. They are a significant, albeit minority, group within the 1931 census data showing a mix of 59% Hindu and 41% Sikh, with variations in different districts.

Socio-economic Position: During the British period, they were classified as a statutory agricultural tribe and a martial class. Today, they are a prosperous, hardworking community involved in agriculture, business, and specialized professions.

Saini Identity:Names: Both Hindu and Sikh Sainis share similar cultural roots and often interact closely. The surname "Saini" is common, though some may use other associated titles.

Strength: They are known as a "warrior caste" or "middle-high status agriculturist" group with a, strong presence in agricultural and military fields.

Courtesy: Devil Maps

02/05/2026

MAZHABI & BALMIKI COMMUNITIES OF PUNJAB, INDIA

Mazhabi Sikhs and Balmikis constitute significant Dalit communities in Punjab, stemming from the same Chuhra background, with Mazhabis following Sikhism and Valmikis adhering to a faith centered on Sage Valmiki. Often marginalized by dominant Sikh castes, they form a crucial part of Punjab's Scheduled Castes, with Mazhabi Sikhs known for their military history, particularly in the Sikh Light Infantry.

Identity and Origin: Both communities share a common ancestry from the Chuhra caste, a traditionally marginalized group.

Mazhabi Sikhs (also known as Rangreta) are those who embraced Sikhism. Valmikis (or Balmikis) are followers of Maharshi Valmiki, whom they consider their spiritual guru.

Mazhabi Sikhs ("The Faithful"): The term Mazhabi (from Arabic Mazhab, meaning religion) was often applied to those who converted to Sikhism. Many trace their roots to Bhai Jaita Ji (later Bhai Jiwan Singh), who brought Guru Tegh Bahadur’s body from Delhi, earning the title "Rangreta Guru Ka Beta".

Overlap and Distinction: While distinction exists, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in popular discourse, though their religious practices are distinct. Some individuals from a Chuhra background may identify as Valmiki but still be referred to as Mazhabi, particularly by others in the region.

Political and Cultural Assertiveness: The communities are highly active in politics and government, with Bhagwan Valmiki Tirath Sthal in Amritsar serving as a major center for cultural and religious identity.

Military Tradition: Mazhabi Sikhs have a strong martial history and have been part of the British Indian Army and later the Indian Army, often serving in the Sikh Light Infantry regiment.

Demographics: Punjab has a significant Dalit population, making up about (32%) of the state's population

Courtesy: Devil Maps

29/04/2026

RAVIDASIA IN PUNJAB, INDIA

Ravidasia is a distinct religious community in Punjab, primarily based on the 14th-century teachings of Bhagat or Guru Ravidas, focused on equality and spiritual emancipation. Historically part of the Dalit Chamar community, some would say that they separated from mainstream Sikhism in 2010 to establish an independent identity, holding significant presence (approx. 12-20 lakh followers) in the Doaba region.

Origin & Development: Rooted in the bhakti movement, the Ravidassia tradition officially announced itself as a separate religion on January 29, 2010, following the Dera Sachkhand Ballan in Jalandhar, their largest spiritual centre.

Scripture and Beliefs: The community uses its own scripture, Amritbani Satguru Ravidas Maharaj Ji which focuses on the teachings of Guru Ravidas. They emphasize the oneness of God, the rejection of the caste system, and the importance of a spiritual Guru.

Regional Influence: They have a strong presence in the Doaba region (districts like Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur) and make up a significant portion of Punjab's Scheduled Caste population.
Economic and Social Status: Once associated with leather work, modern Ravidasias are landowners, businessmen, and government officials. They often operate local tanneries, sports goods, and traditional footwear businesses in the region.

Political Influence: Due to their large population, particularly in the Doaba region, the community is a major voting bloc and is closely associated with regional politics, with leaders like Kanshi Ram having originated from this community.

Map courtesy: Devil Maps

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