Meaning of the Muralidhar family crest symbols

Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Muralidhar coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Muralidhar name meaning and origin
Muralidhar is a South Indian name derived from Sanskrit, meaning "one who bears the mural" or “the one who supports the universe.” It is often associated with Lord Krishna, reflecting qualities of devotion, strength, and artistic expression in familial and cultural contexts.
History of family crests like the Muralidhar 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.
Muralidhar name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Muralidhar reveals a tapestry of cultural influences and linguistic evolution across different regions. In the 18th century, Muralidhar in southern India began to adapt into Muralidharan, especially in Tamil-speaking areas, where the suffix "-an" connotes familial or relational ties. By the 19th century, as the Indian diaspora grew, we see variations like Murali in parts of Nepal and Bhutan, which streamlined the name for better pronunciation in the local dialects. In the 20th century, globalization further transformed Muralidhar into Murali or Murly in Western contexts, illustrating a phonetic shift to accommodate English speakers. Meanwhile, some Indian communities have affectionately shortened it to Dhir or even Mura by the 21st century, showcasing a trend of casualness and familiarity. Each variation not only represents a linguistic adaptation but also reflects the social dynamics and cultural exchanges of its time.
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
