Also known as: Anjaneya, Bajrangbali, Pavanputra
The devoted disciple of Rama, worshipped as a symbol of strength, loyalty and selfless service.
Hanuman, the monkey-god, is one of the central figures of the Ramayana β Rama's most devoted disciple, renowned for his extraordinary strength, his leap across the ocean to Lanka, and his unwavering loyalty and service. Hanuman is widely worshipped as a protector against evil and misfortune, and as an embodiment of bhakti (devotion) in its purest form. Tuesdays and Saturdays are traditionally considered especially auspicious for his worship.
The name Hanuman has several traditional interpretations. One common explanation is that it derives from the Sanskrit word Hanu (jaw), referring to his strong or prominent jaw, linked to a childhood incident in which his jaw was injured.
He is also known by many names:
According to the Ramayana and later Puranic traditions, Hanuman was born to Anjana and Kesari through the divine blessings of Vayu (the Wind God). Therefore, he is lovingly called Pavanputra or Vayuputra.
At birth, Hanuman possessed extraordinary strength, intelligence, and divine powers.
As a child, Hanuman mistook the rising sun for a ripe fruit and leapt into the sky to catch it.
During this event:
Later, sages placed a gentle curse that Hanuman would forget his powers until reminded of them, preventing him from misusing them in childhood.
Hanuman plays a central role in the Ramayana.
His most celebrated deeds include:
Hanuman is remembered as the ideal devotee whose strength was guided by humility and devotion.
Lord Hanuman is prominently mentioned in:
Hanuman represents:
A traditional Hanuman Puja generally includes:
Traditional offerings include:
Om Hanumate Namah
Meaning: Salutations to Lord Hanuman.
Om Aim Bhreem Hanumate
Shri Ram Dootaya Namah
This mantra is recited for strength, courage, and protection.
Om Anjaneyaya Vidmahe
Vayuputraya Dhimahi
Tanno Hanumat Prachodayat
This mantra seeks Hanuman's blessings for wisdom, devotion, and inner strength.
Depicted as a powerful monkey-form deity, often shown either in a posture of devotion with hands folded before Rama, or in a dynamic pose carrying a mountain (from the episode where he retrieved healing herbs for Lakshmana) or tearing open his chest to reveal Rama and Sita within his heart.
The principal festival dedicated to Lord Hanuman, celebrating his birth. The observance date varies by region in India. Devotees visit temples, perform special pujas, recite the Hanuman Chalisa, and read the Sundara Kanda.
Hanuman is worshipped with special devotion during the celebration of Lord Rama's birth, reflecting his eternal service to Rama.
In many traditions, Hanuman is remembered during Deepavali because of his close association with Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya.
Many devotees undertake collective or individual recitations of the Hanuman Chalisa on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and during periods of personal difficulty.
Day / Occasion | Significance |
|---|---|
Tuesday | Traditionally the most popular day for Hanuman worship |
Saturday | Worshipped for protection and strength, especially by many devotees seeking relief from difficulties |
Hanuman Jayanti | Most important annual festival dedicated to Hanuman |
Rama Navami | Special prayers offered to Hanuman along with Lord Rama |
Purnima (in some traditions) | Considered auspicious for Hanuman worship |
According to Hindu scriptures and traditional belief, sincere worship of Lord Hanuman may bestow:
The Ramayana presents Hanuman as the perfect devotee whose unwavering faith, humility, and dedication enabled extraordinary accomplishments. The Hanuman Chalisa, composed by Tulsidas, praises him as the remover of difficulties, protector of devotees, and faithful servant of Lord Rama. Hindu tradition also regards Hanuman as one of the Chiranjivis, who continues to bless sincere devotees and inspire them to cultivate strength, devotion, wisdom, and righteous conduct.
Hanuman's life teaches that true power is not merely physical strength but the combination of devotion, humility, wisdom, discipline, and selfless service. Through steadfast faith and dedication to Dharma, even the greatest obstacles can be overcome.
