Meaning of the Mahendra family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Mahendra coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Mahendra name meaning and origin
Mahendra is a common surname of Indian origin, often associated with Hindu lineage. It may derive from the Sanskrit term "Mahendra," meaning "Great Indra," referring to the king of gods in Hindu mythology, symbolizing power, strength, and authority in a family lineage.
History of family crests like the Mahendra coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Mahendra name variations and their meaning
The family name Mahendra has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In the 15th century, forms like Mahindra emerged in South Asian regions, influenced by local linguistic patterns that favor simpler syllable structures. By the 18th century, as colonialism spread, the name adapted to fit various phonetic preferences, leading to variations like Mahindar in parts of Punjab and other northern Indian states. Moving into the 19th century, the name morphed further with the influence of English colonial governance, resulting in spellings like Mahender, which simplified pronunciation for English speakers. Meanwhile, in Indonesia during the 20th century, the name took on a local twist, transforming into Mahendra, reflecting the local dialects and a shift in cultural identity. Such adaptations highlight the dynamic nature of names as they traverse boundaries, shaped by historical, social, and linguistic transformations.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
