Punjab has a folklore tradition of appreciating the role of dacoits such as Malangi who defied the authorities of the period and sided with the common people.
Other such well-known Punjabi 'Robin Hoods' were Nizam Lohar, Imam Din Gohavia and Jagga Jatt, who were considered folk heroes by people during the early part of the 20th century.
The land which his father left for Malangi was captured by the feudal lords who dominated the area.
The landlords, who were British-appointed Lambardar (village leader) managed to isolate Malangi in the local community, and as he reacted in anger, he became a dacoit.
[2] Even in recent times, some common criminals and bandits are known to add 'Malangi' as a nickname to their real birth names to enhance their image in the community.