what’s in a Surname

A surname or family name is a name added to a given name. In many cases, a surname is a family name and many dictionaries define 'Surname' as a synonym of a family name. The Oxford English Dictionary states/defines against the word 'Surname' as "a hereditary name common to all members of a family, as distinct from a forename". In the West, it is commonly synonymous with last name because it is usually placed at the end of person's given name. The style of having a family name (surname name) to a given name (forename) is far from universal. In many countries  it is common for ordinary people to have only one name. The concept of surname is relatively recent historical development, evolving from a medieval naming practice, called a ' byname '. Based on an individual's occupation or area of residence , a byname would be used in situations where more than one person had the same name.

On  Dec 16, the Supreme Court of Japan has held an archaic law that requires spouses to use the same name. The Apex court further stated that the ruling given is constitutional and did not violate Human Rights. But, it is rather intriguing/ambiguous ruling, not clear & does not specifically state which spouse's -  husband or wife - ‘Surname’ must be used. However, it goes without saying & understood and taken as granted, also being a custom, that wives should adopt husbands' name. Most of the Japanese wives prefer to use their husband's surname, attaching with their names . However, some women & those who petitioned against SC's verdict are not satisfied with this ruling and are in ' heebie-jeebies ' , as they say that they lose their entities while attaching husband's surname & it is below their dignity.  As far as India is concerned, there are the different states (29 nos.)  & there is different policy/style of/while "giving full name to a person" and it is up to the family concerned as desired & depends upon choice of selection. 

In the states like Kerala, the house name is attached with the forename. After marriage most of the women even change their forename and obviously surname too and adopt husband's surname.  It mainly depends upon the customs in vogue or towed from the past.. It is felt that considering the recent Japan's SC's verdict, India may also consider & decide an uniform national policy on 'Surname'.