Why Sri Krishna is Known as Murari – the Story
Sri Krishna, revered as the Supreme Lord in many Hindu traditions, is known by countless divine names. One of these names, Murari, holds a special place as it commemorates Krishna’s victory over the formidable demon Mura. The story, preserved in ancient Puranic narratives, symbolizes the triumph of divine wisdom over ego, ignorance, and tyranny.
The Rise of Narakasura
The tale begins with Narakasura, the son of Bhumi Devi and an incarnation of Vishnu in a previous yuga. Although born with divine blessings, Narakasura’s arrogance grew after receiving a boon from Brahma that he could only be killed by his mother. Misled by power, he conquered kingdoms, tormented sages, imprisoned thousands of women, and even seized the celestial earrings of Aditi, the mother of the gods. His tyranny disrupted cosmic balance and brought fear to all three worlds.
Krishna’s Mission and Satyabhama’s Role
To restore dharma, Krishna undertook the mission to stop Narakasura. Aware of the boon, Krishna requested Satyabhama, an incarnation of Bhumi Devi and his divine consort, to accompany him as his charioteer. This gesture reflected Krishna’s leela and ensured that the prophecy of Narakasura’s death through his mother would be fulfilled.
It also resonated with a timeless teaching expressed by Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita:
“For the protection of the righteous, for the destruction of the wicked, and for the establishment of dharma, I manifest myself age after age.” (Bhagavad Gita 4.8)
The Battle with Mura and the Birth of the Name Murari
Before Krishna reached Narakasura, the demon’s city was guarded by Murasura, a fierce five-headed warrior. Mura attacked Krishna with countless weapons, but Krishna effortlessly neutralized them. Finally, using his Sudarshana Chakra, Krishna severed Mura’s five heads. The demon fell, and the devas rejoiced.
Because Krishna destroyed Mura, he came to be known as Murari — the enemy or slayer of Mura.
Symbolism and Spiritual Significance
The figure of Mura represents the inner enemies that disturb spiritual growth: anger, pride, greed, delusion, and fear. Krishna’s defeat of Mura signifies the destruction of these negative tendencies through divine grace and inner awakening. Narakasura symbolizes the ego that grows uncontrollably when unrestrained, while Satyabhama’s role emphasizes that divine feminine shakti completes and fulfills divine action.
The name Murari is thus not merely a title but a reminder of Krishna’s compassion, strength, and commitment to upholding dharma. For devotees, invoking the name Murari is invoking the Lord who removes obstacles, dispels darkness, and protects the path of righteousness.