Murari — Enemy of the Demon Mura

By slaying Mura, the five-headed demon who guarded Narakasura's city, Krishna became "Murari". The name recalls the Lord's valour in protecting the helpless.

"Murari" is formed from "Mura" and "ari", enemy, and means the foe of the demon Mura. The name comes from an episode of Krishna's Dwarka period, described in the Shrimad Bhagavatam, Canto 10.

Narakasura, son of the Earth goddess, had become a great oppressor. He had taken the earrings of Aditi, mother of the gods, and held thousands of princesses captive. His capital, Pragjyotishpura, was ringed by mountains, weapons, water and fire, and was guarded by Mura, a fearsome five-headed demon who had laid deadly snares all around the city. Krishna flew there on Garuda with Satyabhama, broke through the defences, and with his Sudarshana discus cut off all five of Mura's heads. He then defeated Narakasura himself and set the captive princesses free.

In kirtan and bhajan, addresses such as "Mukunda Murari" and "Murari Govinda" are very popular. When devotees sing this name they carry the feeling that, just as the Lord cut through Mura's snares, he will cut through the bonds and fears of their own lives.

Name Sa

मुरारि

Name Roman

Murari

Meaning

enemy of the demon Mura

Source

Shrimad Bhagavatam, Canto 10 (Narakasura episode)