Its main stream originates from the northern off-shoot of the Vindhayachal along the northern boundary (at Phurtalao) of Jobat. Also, one branch rises near Sajawada. The south-eastern course of the river passes through Bojhar and Khatali.

Folklore tells that once the foot of a cow-elephant stuck in the mud at the place where a spring came out, when she pulled her foot off. Hence the name Hatni, meaning female elephant.