Hanuman

Character Overview

Hanuman is a central figure of the Ramayana and later Hindu devotion. Born of Anjana and Vayu (the wind), he is often called Anjaneya, Pavanputra, Maruti and Kesari Nandan. He is a vanara (a noble monkey-like being) of immense strength, speed, and courage, yet his defining quality is his absolute devotion (bhakti) to Lord Rama. Hanuman is celebrated both as a fearless warrior and as the perfect servant: humble, obedient, wise, and single-minded in his love for the Lord.

Relationship with Krishna

Hanuman’s primary and scriptural devotion is to Rama, an avatar of Vishnu. Because Rama and Krishna are both understood as forms of the same supreme Lord in Vaishnava thought, Hanuman’s devotion extends reverently toward Krishna as well. In the Mahabharata cycle Hanuman meets Bhima (his spiritual-brother as both are sons of Vayu) and later is associated with the Pandava cause: his presence on Arjuna’s chariot banner (the kapidvaja) is understood as a protective blessing for the warrior supported by Krishna. Across traditions, devotees regard Hanuman as a timeless servant of Vishnu’s avatars — primarily Rama — and many devotees invoke him when approaching Krishna, seeing continuity in their worship of the one Lord.

Notable Conversations and Incidents

• Meeting Sita (Sundara Kanda): Hanuman finds Sita in Ashoka grove, delivers Rama’s message, comforts her, and thereafter reassures Rama of her well-being. His gentle manner and courage are central in this scene.
• Burning of Lanka: After being captured, Hanuman allowed himself to be bound, then used his exceptional strength to break free, set parts of Lanka ablaze, and return to report to Rama.
• Sanjeevani episode: When Lakshmana is critically wounded, Hanuman leaps to the Himalayas, identifies the life-restoring herb (Sanjeevani) and brings the mountain or its herbs back to save him.
• Encounter with Bhima: In the Mahabharata, Hanuman meets Bhima and tests his strength; the meeting reveals their kinship through Vayu and leads to mutual respect.
• Banner on Arjuna’s Chariot: Hanuman grants his presence to Arjuna’s standard, symbolically protecting the Pandava army and connecting the Ramayana’s devotion to later epic events.

Interesting Facts and Nuances

• Son of Vayu: Hanuman’s birth as Vayu’s son explains his swiftness, ability to fly, and association with the wind.
• Chiranjeevi (immortal): Many traditions describe Hanuman as one of the immortals who remain in the world to bless and aid devotees across ages.
• Brahmacharya and Humility: Hanuman is widely revered as a lifelong celibate and brahmachari, focusing his energies entirely on service to the Lord.
• Shiva connection: Some Puranic accounts present Hanuman as an incarnation or aspect connected with Shiva sent to aid Rama; this nuance highlights the unity among major deities in classical Hindu narratives.
• Liturgical presence: Hanuman Chalisa (a devotional hymn by Tulsidas) and many regional prayers celebrate his virtues; he is invoked for courage, protection, and the removal of obstacles.

Legacy and Lessons

Hanuman’s life teaches surrender, service, and the power of devotion over pride or learning alone. He models how strength must be guided by humility and how true power is used to uplift and protect others. For devotees of Krishna and Rama alike, Hanuman remains an accessible ideal: one who turned every personal ability into an instrument of divine service. His legacy endures in temples, festivals, and daily practice where he is called upon for courage, focus, and unwavering faith.