Ludhiana’s Journey: From Lodhi Roots to Modern Glory

Ludhiana was founded during the reign of the Lodhi dynasty, which ruled Delhi from 1451 to 1526 AD. Legend has it that two Lodhi chiefs, Yusaf Khan and Nihand Khan, were sent by Sikandar Lodhi (1489-1517 AD) to restore order in this region. While Yusaf Khan crossed the Sutlej River into the Jalandhar Doab to curb the activities of the Khokhars, Nihand Khan stayed back at a small village named Mir Hota, which later became the site of the present-day city of Ludhiana.

Initially, the new settlement was called ‘Lodhi-ana,’ meaning ‘the town of the Lodhis.’ Over time, the name evolved into Ludhiana. Today, Ludhiana serves as a district headquarters and a parliamentary constituency of the same name. It is also one of the largest municipal corporations in Punjab.

The city spans approximately 310 square kilometers and stands on the old bank of the Sutlej River, 13 kilometers south of its current course. Over the years, Ludhiana has transformed into a vibrant hub of diverse cultures and activities. It has developed unique traits and qualities, making it a significant center in the region.