Last Name Khanna

The surname "Khanna" is of Indian origin, specifically associated with the Punjabi community. It is a common surname found among people of Punjabi descent in the northern regions of India and Pakistan. The surname Khanna is derived from the Punjabi word "Khanna" which means "innkeeper" or "food-grain trader". In the past, many Punjabi families were involved in the trading of food and goods, and over time, "Khanna" became a surname associated with this occupation.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Khanna

The meaning and origin of the last name Khanna

The surname Khanna has its origin in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the Punjab region. It belongs to the Khatri community, which is one of the dominant castes in North India. The word "Khanna" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Khana," meaning ‘house’ or ‘inn.’ Historical records suggest that the Khanna community was traditionally associated with owning and managing inns or rest houses, providing shelter and food for travelers. Over time, individuals with the surname Khanna branched out into various professions such as trading, agriculture, and other business ventures. Today, Khanna is a common surname not only among Punjabis in India but also among the Indian diaspora around the world. Prominent personalities like Bollywood actors Rajesh Khanna and his daughter Twinkle Khanna have further contributed to the recognition and popularity of the surname Khanna.

Geographical distribution of the last name Khanna

The last name Khanna is commonly found in India, particularly in the northern regions of the country. Originating from the Punjabi community, it is predominantly associated with the Hindu and Sikh religions. In India, the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi have a significant population of Khannas. However, due to migration and globalization, the distribution of this surname has expanded to other parts of the world. In recent years, a significant number of Khannas have migrated to countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the largest concentration of Khannas can be found in the states of California, New Jersey, and Texas, amongst others. Similarly, Canada has a significant population of Khannas, with many residing in Ontario and British Columbia. The United Kingdom also has a considerable number of Khannas, primarily in London and the surrounding areas. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Khanna reflects the migration patterns of the Punjabi community, with strong representation in both India and various countries around the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Khanna

The last name Khanna is of Indian origin and derives from the Sanskrit word "khan," meaning leader or ruler. It is a fairly common surname among people of Punjabi descent. While the original spelling is Khanna, there are a few variations or alternative spellings that may be encountered. These include Kanna, Kana, Khana, Khann, or even Khan. These alternative spellings may have emerged due to regional dialects or transcription errors over time. Despite the variations, the core pronunciation of the name tends to remain consistent. The Khanna surname is known worldwide due to the achievements of individuals bearing this name in various fields such as entertainment, politics, and business. Examples include Bollywood actors Akshay Khanna and Rahul Khanna, as well as entrepreneur and author Vikram Khanna. Regardless of the spelling, this surname signifies a proud ancestral lineage and heritage for those who bear it.

Famous people with the last name Khanna

The Khanna family has been a prominent name in various industries, with several famous individuals contributing to their legacy. One of the most celebrated figures is Rajesh Khanna, widely recognized as the first superstar of Indian cinema. With his captivating on-screen presence and remarkable acting skills, Khanna conquered hearts of millions during the 1970s. Another notable personality is Twinkle Khanna, daughter of Rajesh Khanna and herself an accomplished actress, author, and interior designer. Twinkle has seamlessly transitioned between various fields, leaving her mark with critically acclaimed movies, bestselling books, and innovative design projects. Dimple Kapadia, Rajesh Khanna's former wife and Twinkle's mother, has also had a successful career in acting and continues to captivate the audience with her talent even today. The Khanna family truly exemplifies the power of talent and dedication, securing their status as iconic figures in the entertainment industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Khanna

The genealogical research on the last name Khanna traces its origins to North India. The Khanna surname is predominantly found among people belonging to the Punjabi community, specifically the Khatri caste. Historically, Khatri families were involved in trade and commerce, and played an important role in the economic development of the region. The surname is believed to have derived from the Sanskrit word "khyāti," meaning fame or reputation. Over time, the Khanna family expanded and migrated to different parts of the world, particularly during the Indian diaspora. Today, Khannas can be found in various countries, predominantly in India, Pakistan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other regions with significant Indian communities. The ancestral lineage and specific branches within the Khanna family can be explored further through detailed genealogical research, connecting individuals to their ancestors and uncovering their unique family histories.

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