The answer is nuanced: while Bhatts are primarily known as Kashmiri Pandits, some Kashmiri families with the Bhatt surname migrated to Punjab.
Here's a breakdown:
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Bhatt Origin: The Bhatt surname originates as a Kashmiri Pandit (Kashmiri Brahmin) surname.
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Migration to Punjab: Over time, some Kashmiri Pandit families with the Bhatt surname migrated to the Punjab region, which is now divided between India and Pakistan.
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Therefore: While not all Bhatts are Punjabi, individuals with the Bhatt surname can be found in Punjab due to historical migrations from Kashmir. Their primary cultural and ancestral background remains Kashmiri Pandit, even if they reside in Punjab.