Last Name Kohli

The last name "Kohli" is of Indian origin, particularly associated with the Punjabi community. In Punjab, a region spanning across India and Pakistan, surnames or last names are commonly derived from ancestral occupations or lineage. The surname "Kohli" is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word "kohala," which means a stabilizing pillar or support. The word "Kohli" is associated with a specific clan or sub-caste within the larger Khatri community of Punjab. Members of the Kohli community are traditionally engaged in various professions such as farming, business, teaching, or government services. Over time, many individuals with the last name "Kohli" have migrated to different parts of India and other countries, contributing to the diaspora of Punjabi culture and the spread of the surname.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Kohli

The meaning and origin of the last name Kohli

The surname Kohli is of Indian origin, specifically associated with the Punjabi community. It is derived from the word "Kohla," which means "someone from the village of Koh." The Kohli surname is predominantly found among Sikh and Hindu families residing in the northern regions of Punjab in India and Pakistan. Kohlis traditionally belonged to agrarian communities and were primarily involved in farming and agriculture. Over time, members of the Kohli community have ventured into various other professions and fields, including business, politics, sports, and entertainment. The Kohli surname gained widespread recognition due to the notable achievements of cricketer Virat Kohli, who captained the Indian cricket team. His success and charismatic leadership skills have brought international attention to the surname and increased its prominence globally. Today, the Kohli surname represents the proud heritage and accomplishments of a diverse range of individuals hailing from different walks of life within the Punjabi community.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kohli

The last name Kohli is primarily found in India, particularly in the northern regions of the country. It is a common surname among the Punjabi community and is associated with the Khatri caste. Within India, the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Kohli can be found in the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. However, due to global migration and the Indian diaspora, the distribution of the Kohli name extends beyond national borders. Significant populations of individuals with this surname can also be found in countries with a large Indian community, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. In these countries, many individuals with the last name Kohli have migrated for education, employment, or as part of their family's history. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Kohli surname reflects both its prominent presence in India and its dispersal across the globe through migration.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kohli

The last name Kohli has several variations and spellings due to its origins and different transliteration systems. One common variation is "Kohali," where the "l" is added at the end. Another variation is "Kohly," which is mainly seen in Western countries. Other possible variations could include "Kohlee," "Kohleigh," or "Kohlii," where additional vowels are inserted to modify the pronunciation or to match the name with the phonetic equivalent in different languages. In some cases, the name may be spelled "Kholi" or "Kholhi," as "h" is sometimes used instead of "l" in certain dialects or regions. Additionally, different transliteration systems can result in variations such as "Kovli" or "Kowli." These variants and spellings are evidence of how surnames can evolve, adapt, and be influenced by cultural or linguistic changes over time.

Famous people with the last name Kohli

Virat Kohli is a renowned Indian cricketer and one of the brightest stars in the cricketing world. Known for his exceptional batting skills and aggressive leadership style, Kohli has become one of the most successful and celebrated cricketers of his generation. Since his debut in 2008, he has shattered numerous records and achieved extraordinary milestones, earning him the reputation of being one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. Off the field, Kohli is also known for his philanthropy work and active involvement in various charitable initiatives. He has used his platform to raise awareness and promote causes such as child welfare, education, and animal rights. With a massive fan following globally, Virat Kohli has left an indelible mark on the cricketing world and continues to inspire millions with his passion, determination, and leadership skills.

Genealogical research on the last name Kohli

The last name Kohli is derived from the Sanskrit word "Koli," which means a warrior or protector. The Kohli surname is predominantly found among the Hindu Punjabi community of India. The genealogical research on the Kohli name reveals a rich history and ancestral ties to the Kshatriya (warrior) clan. Many Kohli families trace their roots back to the northern Indian state of Punjab, particularly the Jalandhar and Hoshiarpur regions. Over the centuries, some Kohli families migrated to other parts of India and the world, often seeking better economic opportunities. Today, the Kohli surname can be found among the Indian diaspora in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The Kohli family name is often associated with traits such as bravery, leadership, and a strong sense of community.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Kohli"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 7 June 2025

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