Hanuman

Hanuman is a central deity in Hinduism, known for his immense strength, unwavering devotion, and role as a divine helper in the epic Ramayana. The name is probably derived from the Sanskrit element हनु (hanu) meaning "cheek, jaw," possibly referring to Hanuman's characteristic disfigured jaw.

Etymology and Mythology

According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman is the son of Anjana, a female vanara (monkey-like humanoid), and Vayu, the god of wind. His birth is celebrated in the Indian calendar on Hanuman Jayanti. Hanuman is best known for his devotion to Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu and the hero of the Ramayana. In the epic, Hanuman helps Rama rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana by leaping across the ocean to Lanka, setting the city ablaze with his tail, and ultimately aiding in the battle. Hanuman is also considered a chiranjivi—a being destined to live forever—and appears in other texts like the Mahabharata and various Puranas.

Religious Significance

Hanuman is revered across multiple Hindu traditions. In Shaivism, he is sometimes considered an incarnation of Shiva, while in Vaishnavism he is the son and incarnation of Vayu. Though his worship was not widely prominent in early texts, by the medieval period Hanuman became a popular independent deity, with temples and sacred literature dedicated to him, such as the Hanuman Chalisa composed by the poet Tulsidas in the 16th century. He is also known by epithets like Maruti, Bajrangabali, and Anjaneya.

Notable Bearers

• Hanumantha Rao (several Indian politicians)
• Hanuman Singh (Indian cricketer)
• E. Hanumantha Rao (Telugu film director)

Key Facts

• Meaning: “Cheek, jaw” (Sanskrit)
• Origin: Hindu mythology
• Type: First name
• Usage Regions: India, Nepal, Indonesia