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Last Name Arulpiragasam

What is the origin of the last name Arulpiragasam?

The surname Aruppiragasam is of Tamil origin, which is a Dravidian language primarily spoken by the Tamils in South India and Sri Lanka. The name likely has roots in the region's culture and history. However, to provide a more specific etymology, it would be necessary to consult historical records or linguistic experts specializing in Tamil names and their meanings.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Arulpiragasam

The meaning and origin of the last name Arulpiragasam

The surname Aruppiragasam is of Tamil origin, hailing from the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It's derived from the combination of two Tamil words: "Aruppu" meaning 'shining' or 'bright', and "Piragasam", a term that might refer to an occupation related to agriculture, such as cultivation or plowing. This surname could have originally been given to someone who was particularly skilled in these agricultural tasks or whose work contributed significantly to the brightness or prosperity of their farmland. Over time, this surname has been passed down through generations and is now common among Tamil communities both in India and among the Tamil diaspora.

Geographical distribution of the last name Arulpiragasam

The last name Arulpiragasam is primarily associated with the Tamil-speaking population of India, particularly those from the state of Tamil Nadu. The name originates from the Tamil region and has a significant concentration within this area, notably in cities such as Chennai (Madras) and Coimbatore. A smaller diaspora can be found in countries with large Tamil populations, including Singapore, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and various parts of the United States and Canada, where many Tamils have migrated for work or other opportunities. However, the distribution is largely centered around Tamil Nadu, reflecting its historical roots within this region.

Variants and spellings of the last name Arulpiragasam

The surname Arulpiragasam has multiple variations and spellings due to differences in transcription and transliteration. Here are some possible forms:

* Aru-Lakshmanan, Aru-Lakshmananam, Aru-Lakshmananar, Aru-Lakshmananarayanan
* Arul-Piragasam, Arul-Piragasan, Arul-Piragasanam, Arul-Piragasanar
* Arul-Perumal-Piragasam, Arul-Perumal-Piragasan, Arul-Perumal-Piragasanam
* Aru-Lakshmanan Perumal Piragasam, Aru-Lakshmanan Perumal Piragasan

These variations can be found in different parts of the world, and may have slight differences due to regional dialects, personal preference, or errors in documentation. It is important to note that the original Tamil script for this name may not have specific characters for "Aru", "Arul", and "Piragasam", so these are approximate transliterations based on common usage.

Famous people with the last name Arulpiragasam

Munkra Arulpiragasam, also known as M.I.A., is a renowned British singer, songwriter, and rapper of Sri Lankan Tamil heritage. Born in London in 1975, she gained prominence with her debut album "Arular" (2005), which was critically acclaimed for its fusion of various music styles. Her politically charged lyrics and videos often address social and political issues, most notably the Sri Lankan Civil War. In addition to her musical career, M.I.A. has ventured into directing, activism, and fashion design.

Another notable figure with the last name Arulpiragasam is the British-Tamil filmmaker, Danish Arulpiragasam. He gained recognition for his short films, including "Joy" (2014), which was nominated for a BAFTA award in 2015. His works often explore themes of identity, migration, and cultural displacement, drawing from his personal experiences as a Tamil refugee. Both M.I.A. and Danish Arulpiragasam have contributed significantly to the cultural landscape by representing the perspectives of the British-Tamil community in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Arulpiragasam

The surname Arulpiragasam originates from Tamil Nadu, India, and is derived from the Tamil language, meaning "silver-gold merchant." The name has roots in the Vaishya caste, traditionally associated with merchants and traders. The Arulpiragasam clan is one of the sub-castes within the larger Vaishya community. Historically, they were primarily settled in the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, particularly around the city of Nagapattinam. The name gained prominence during the Chola dynasty (9th to 13th centuries CE), when many merchants flourished under the patronage of the Chola kings. The Arulpiragasams are known for their entrepreneurial skills and have contributed significantly in various fields such as trade, agriculture, and politics throughout Tamil Nadu's history.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 29 July 2025

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