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Last Name Sidhu

What is the origin of the last name Sidhu?

The last name "Sidhu" is of Indian (Punjabi) origin. It is a clan or caste name associated with the Jatt Sikhs, a warrior community in the Punjab region. It is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Shishu' which means 'disciple'. The Sidhu clan played an important role in the foundation of the Sikh religion under Guru Nanak Dev Ji and subsequent Gurus.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sidhu

The meaning and origin of the last name Sidhu

The surname Sidhu is of Indian origin, specifically belonging to the Sikh community. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "shidha," which means a hero or a brave warrior. Over time, it has been anglicized as Sidhu, and is commonly found among Punjabi Sikhs. The name Sidhu is associated with the illustrious warrior caste of the ancient Indian epics and legends. It is believed that individuals bearing this surname descend from these brave warriors who played significant roles in the protection and administration of territories. Notable figures with the Sidhu surname include Tarlochan Singh Sidhu, a prominent Indian politician, and Gurpreet Singh Sidhu, a Canadian ice hockey player.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sidhu

The last name Sidhu is predominantly found in the Punjab region, which spans across Pakistan and India. Historically, it originated from the Sikh community, making its highest concentration within this cultural group. Significant populations of Sidhus can be found in the Indian states of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi as well as in Pakistani provinces like Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Due to historical events such as the partition of India in 1947 and subsequent migration patterns, there are also Sidhu communities in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia, where many Punjabi Sikhs have settled.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sidhu

The last name Sidhu has several variations and spellings, largely due to differences in transcription and transliteration from the Gurmukhi script used in the Punjabi language. Some of these variations include Sidhu, Cidhu, Siddhu, Sittoo, Settoo, Syedoo, Sidoo, and Siddu. Other less common spellings may also be found based on regional dialects or individual family preferences. It is important to note that the correct spelling for a given individual can vary depending on factors such as geographical location and cultural background.

Famous people with the last name Sidhu

Notable individuals bearing the surname Sidhu include Harbhajan Singh Sidhu, an Indian cricketer who has played for the Indian national team since 1998 and is known for his spin bowling; Navjot Singh Sidhu, a former Indian cricketer turned politician who served as a member of parliament and the cabinet minister in the government of Punjab from 2017 to 2022; Dalmeet Singh Sidhu, a Canadian Sikh activist and leader of the Khalsa Council of Canada; and Aman Nath Sidhu, a British-Indian actress known for her roles in Indian films such as "Bend It Like Beckham" and "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel." These individuals are distinguished in their respective fields and have contributed significantly to their communities.

Genealogical research on the last name Sidhu

The last name Sidhu originates from the Punjab region in India and is predominantly found among Sikhs. It belongs to the Khatri caste, which traditionally served as administrators or traders. The surname can be traced back to the ancient Rajput clans of Punjab who were known as Sidh Rajas (Rajas being a title for rulers). One notable historical figure bearing this name is Baba Sahib Bhai Balbir Singh Sidhu, a distinguished Indian freedom fighter and social reformer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Sidhu clan experienced significant migrations during the Partition of India in 1947, settling primarily in India and Pakistan. Today, numerous descendants of the Sidhu family reside worldwide, particularly in countries like Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, as a result of post-Partition migration and diaspora.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 June 2025

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