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Who is Hanuman? The Deity of Devotion, Strength, and Service

Written and reviewed by The Kriya Yogi · Updated 28 September 2026

Hanuman is one of the most beloved and widely worshipped figures in the world of yoga and spirituality. Known as the 'Pavanputra' (Son of the Wind), he is a central character in the epic Ramayana, where he serves as the loyal commander of the vanara army. But Hanuman is more than a mythological hero; he is a psychological archetype of the 'breath' and the 'mind' brought under perfect control through devotion. This pillar guide introduces his origins, his powers, and why millions of practitioners look to him as the supreme model of Bhakti Yoga.

The short answers

  • Hanuman is a 'vanara' (forest-dweller) often depicted with the face of a monkey and the body of a powerful human.
  • He is the son of Anjana and Vayu, the god of the wind, which connects him symbolically to Prana (life force).
  • His life is defined by his absolute devotion (Bhakti) to Lord Rama and Sita.
  • He possesses the 'Ashta Siddhis' (eight supernatural powers) and 'Nav Nidhis' (nine types of wealth).
  • In yoga, Hanuman represents the potential of the mind when it is disciplined and directed toward a higher purpose.
  • He is considered a 'Chiranjivi', an immortal being who remains present on Earth to help devotees.

The Symbolism of Hanuman

To understand Hanuman, one must look past the physical form. The name 'Hanuman' itself refers to 'one with a broken jaw,' a reminder of a childhood story where he attempted to swallow the sun, mistaking it for a fruit. This story symbolizes the restless, ambitious nature of the human mind which, in its immature state, tries to grasp even the impossible. When that mind is humbled and redirected toward service, it becomes a force for liberation.

The Son of the Wind

As the son of Vayu, Hanuman is literally the son of the breath. Just as the wind is invisible but carries immense power, Hanuman represents the subtle power of Prana. In the practice of Pranayama, we attempt to do exactly what Hanuman did: master the wind within us to find the strength to cross the 'oceans' of our own internal obstacles.

The Ultimate Devotee

Hanuman is the patron deity of Bhakti Yoga. He does not seek power for himself; all his strength is placed at the feet of Rama. This total surrender is not a sign of weakness but the source of his invincibility. It teaches us that true power comes not from the ego, but from serving a truth larger than ourselves.

Hanuman in Daily Life

For many, Hanuman is a protector. He is invoked to remove fear, to grant physical health, and to provide the mental clarity needed to solve difficult problems. His presence in temples, often smeared with orange vermilion, is a common sight across India and the global diaspora. Whether you are a student facing exams or a yogi facing internal resistance, Hanuman's example offers a path of courage and grit.

Approaching it with care

  1. Understand his relationship with Rama

    Recognize that Hanuman's strength is inseparable from his devotion.

  2. Learn the basic iconography

    Identify the mace (Gada), the mountain he carries, and the opening of his chest to reveal Rama and Sita.

  3. Reflect on the wind element

    Connect Hanuman to your own breath and energy (Prana).

  4. Observe a Tuesday or Saturday

    These days are traditionally dedicated to Hanuman worship and reflection.

Cautions worth reading

  • Avoid viewing Hanuman as merely a 'monkey god'; he represents high philosophical concepts of mind and breath.
  • Ensure respect for the culture and traditions from which his worship originates.

What scholars and evidence say

Hanuman's stories are primary to the Valmiki Ramayana (c. 5th century BCE) and the later Tulsidas Ramcharitmanas (16th century CE). His widespread worship is a cornerstone of the Bhakti movement in India.

Questions people ask

+ Is Hanuman a god or a demigod?
In the Hindu tradition, he is an avatar of Lord Shiva and a deity in his own right, though he always positions himself as a servant of Lord Rama.
+ Why is Hanuman orange?
Tradition says he once smeared himself with vermilion (sindoor) because he heard it would ensure Lord Rama's long life; he did it all over his body out of extreme devotion.
+ What does the name Hanuman mean?
It comes from the Sanskrit words 'Hanu' (jaw) and 'Man' (prominent or disfigured), referring to the time Indra struck his jaw with a thunderbolt.

Sources

  • Valmiki Ramayana
  • Ramcharitmanas by Tulsidas
  • Hanuman Chalisa

These are living traditions, best approached with a teacher or community where possible. Nothing here is medical advice; check with a clinician before starting a new movement or meditation practice if you have a health condition.