Hanuman

Who is Hanuman?

Hanuman is the mahavira — the great hero — of Hindu devotion. Son of Anjana and the wind god Vayu (which is why he is also called Pawanputra — son of the wind), Hanuman is the supreme devotee of Lord Rama.

In the Ramayana, Hanuman’s role is indispensable. It is he who leaps across the ocean to Lanka to find Sita, he who carries the message of Rama to her, he who burns Lanka with his tail, and he who fetches the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana’s life.

But beyond his heroic deeds, Hanuman is beloved for his pure devotion — an utterly selfless love that asks for nothing except the opportunity to serve.

The Devotee of Devotees

When asked what he wants as reward for his service, Hanuman invariably responds: “Only to remain in the service of Rama.” This is the highest expression of Bhakti (devotion) — service without expectation, love without condition.

The famous image of Hanuman tearing open his chest to reveal Rama and Sita within his heart captures this essence perfectly. The devotee and the Divine are not separate — they dwell together in the heart of pure love.

Symbolism

• Monkey form: Mastery over the monkey mind (the restless, distracted mind that must be tamed)
• Orange/red complexion: The color of energy, devotion, and victory
• Gada (mace): Power to destroy obstacles and enemies of dharma
• Mountain: When he could not identify the Sanjeevani herb, he carried the entire mountain — the power of wholehearted commitment
• Celibacy (brahmacharya): The source of his extraordinary strength and spiritual power

Hanuman Chalisa

The Hanuman Chalisa — 40 verses in praise of Hanuman composed by the poet-saint Tulsidas — is recited daily by millions of Hindus. It is believed to remove fear, protect from evil, and grant strength to face life’s challenges.

Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa on Tuesdays and Saturdays is considered especially auspicious.