By Shree Sauparnika V

Why do so many people love Hanuman? Is it because he can lift mountains? Or because he never gives up? Or maybe it is because he’s everything at once — strong and gentle, serious and funny, fierce and kind. In the countless stories about him, Hanuman shows us different sides of himself — each one full of power and meaning. 

Here are just some of the many faces of Hanuman, each drawn from a moment in his extraordinary story. 

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Hanuman the Devotee 

Hanuman’s most   famous role is that of a bhakta — a true devotee. His love for Lord Rama is so deep that it becomes part of who he is. One of the most touching stories comes after the war in Lanka, when Sita gives Hanuman a pearl necklace as a reward. He begins biting each pearl, checking it carefully. When asked why, he says he is looking for Rama inside them because for him, only what holds Rama is valuable. Some even say he tore open his chest to show that Rama and Sita lived in his heart.  

Hanuman the Warrior

In the battlefield of Lanka, Hanuman becomes a one-Vanara army. He leaps across oceans, defeats demons, and sets the city of Lanka on fire with his burning tail. But one of his most epic warrior moments comes when he lifts the Dronagiri mountain to save Lakshmana. Not knowing which herb could heal him, Hanuman decides not to waste time and brings the whole mountain instead. It’s a reminder that true strength is not just about muscle, but about purpose.  

Hanuman the Scholar 

Did you know Hanuman was a brilliant scholar too? He is said to have mastered the Vedas and the Shastras and is even known as a great grammarian. In one lesser-known story from the Mahabharata, Hanuman meets the mighty scholar Bheeshma and engages him in a deep discussion on dharma and devotion. Another story says that after the war, Hanuman wrote his version of the Ramayana on a rock wall with his fingernail. It was so beautiful that even Valmiki was humbled. 

Hanuman the Trickster 

Hanuman has a clever, mischievous side too. As a child, he once mistook the sun for a fruit and leapt into the sky to grab it. Later, when he enters Lanka to search for Sita, he disguises himself, shrinks in size, and sneaks past the demon guards. When caught, he allows himself to be tied up — only to use that moment to burst free and burn down the city. His trickery is not for fun alone — it is always in service of a larger mission. 

Hanuman the Healer 

Hanuman is also associated with healing. His most famous act—flying to the Himalayas to fetch the Sanjeevani herb—saved Lakshmana’s life. In many parts of India, Hanuman is worshipped as a protector against illness, particularly among wrestlers, soldiers, and those who seek physical strength. Some temples even offer special prayers on Tuesdays and Saturdays for good health and courage. 

Hanuman the Tantric Guardian 

In some traditions, Hanuman is worshipped as a powerful protector in tantric practices. He takes on fearsome forms—like Panchamukha Hanuman, with five faces and ten arms, each face guarding against different kinds of evil. This form is said to have appeared when Hanuman had to rescue Rama and Lakshmana from a deadly trap. As a tantric guardian, Hanuman becomes not just a helper of gods, but a fierce force of protection in the cosmic battle between good and evil. 

Hanuman the Ascetic 

Some traditions depict Hanuman as a silent yogi, seated in deep meditation. After Rama’s departure, it is said that Hanuman withdrew from the world to continue chanting his name in solitude. In this form, he becomes the ideal ascetic—his mind entirely absorbed in the divine. This Hanuman reminds us of the stillness that lies beneath strength, the peace that follows devotion. 

And these are just a few of Hanuman’s many forms. In different regions and traditions, he appears as a musician, playing the veena in devotion to Rama; as a poet, composing hymns and verses filled with love; even as a guardian deity at village borders or a wrestler in local akhadas. His character continues to grow through stories, songs, and temple traditions, showing that Hanuman is not bound by one form or one role. He is a living symbol of all that is noble, brave, and kind.

In the vast world of Indian storytelling, Hanuman shines as a figure who is always close to the heart, whether he is flying through the skies or sitting in deep meditation. Each of his forms offers something special: strength, wisdom, devotion, or healing. And that’s what makes him timeless. No matter who you are or what you are facing, there is a Hanuman for you— ready to lift you up, guide you forward, or simply remind you that you are never alone. 

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