Appointed as the president of the Punjab unit of the Bharatiya Janata party (BJP), Kewal Singh has become the latest addition to the long and influential legacy of the Dhillons in Punjab.
Among the most prominent Jat clans in the state, the Dhillons have historically enjoyed a strong presence across the Malwa region.
Traditionally regarded as a land-owning martial community, the clan’s roots are often traced to Indo-Aryan tribes and the Jodhpur region of Rajasthan before their eventual settlement in Punjab.
Historically, the Dhillons ruled the Bhangi Misl (sovereign state) in the 18th century.
A two-time former Congress MLA from Barnala, Kewal Singh had joined the BJP in June 2022 after the last Vidhan Sabha elections. Interestingly, he is not the first Dhillon to have an impactful presence in the state politics.
The biggest names earlier have been those of Badals. Having served as the state Chief Minister for five times between 1970 and 2017, Parkash Singh Badal was a Dhillon. He was elected to the state Assembly at least 10 times. The senior Badal passed away in April 2023. His son Sukhbir Badal, who served as the state Deputy Chief Minister, continues to be a prominent leader of the Shiromani Akali Dal.
Another important figure associated with the clan is Baba Gurinder Singh Dhillon, who is the spiritual head of Radha Soami Satsang Beas, one of the biggest deras in the state. The dera does not show leaning towards any party, but leaders of all important political parties can be seen making a beeline for the dera, particularly during elections.
Several other Dhillons have also held prominent political positions in Punjab. These include former Irrigation Minister during the tenure of the SAD government (2007-2017) Sharanjit Singh, AAP MLA from Gidderbaha Hardeep Singh ‘Dimpy’ Dhillon, Congress MLA from Barnala Kuldeep Singh ‘Kaala’ Dhillon, former Congress MLA from Samrala Amrik Singh Dhillonand former Congress MLA from Faridkot Kushaldeep Singh Dhillon.
Beyond politics, other Dhillons worthy of mention are India-born Canadian singer AP Dhillon, yesteryear Bollywood star Poonam Dhillon and famous Punjabi actor Binu Dhillon.
