How Panchmukhi Hanuman Rescued Ram and Lakshman ?

Hanumanji instantly removes any type of crisis that comes upon his devotees, and that is why people also know him as Sankatmochan. Although Hanumanji himself is a devoted follower of Lord Shri Ram and always remembers his name, once even Lord Shri Ram fell into danger, and then Hanumanji took the Panchmukhi avatar and rescued him from that crisis.

Panchmukhi Avatar of Hanumanji

When Lakshman killed Ravana’s son (Indrajit), he decided to take revenge. He called Ahiravan from the Patal. Ravana convinced him to capture Ram and Lakshman. He wanted their sacrifice to be offered to Goddess Mahamaya. In return, Ravana promised Ahiravan great power. Despite the efforts of Vibhishan and Hanuman, Ahiravan used various disguises and illusions to kidnap Ram and Lakshman.

At one point, he entered in the guise of Vibhishan and tricked Hanuman into allowing him entry. After entering, Ahiravan successfully kidnapped Ram and Lakshman and took them to his underworld kingdom. When their disappearance became known, Hanuman vowed to rescue them and asked Vibhishan for guidance. Vibhishan suggested the path to the Patal

Hanumanji’s Battle with Makardhwaj

When Hanumanji reached the Patal, he fought with Makardhwaj. After the burning of Lanka, when Hanuman was returning, a drop of his sweat fell into the ocean. It entered the mouth of a giant crocodile. The residents of the underworld caught the crocodile. After cutting open the crocodile’s stomach, they found an extraordinary being named Makardhwaj. Recognizing Makardhwaj’s exceptional intelligence and strength, Ahiravan, the king of the Patal appointed him as the guardian of his palace.

When Hanuman attempted to enter Ahiravan’s palace, Makardhwaj stopped him. Hanuman became curious and asked his identity. Makardhwaj declared himself as the brave guardian of the Patal He also claimed to be the proud son of Hanuman. Surprised Hanuman doubted his claim at first because he had observed celibacy throughout his life.

Then Hanuman went into deep meditation to learn the truth about Makardhwaj’s origin. Makardhwaj told Hanuman that he was ready to fight even his own father. He wanted to honor his loyalty to his guru Ahiravan. To fulfill his master’s wish, Makardhwaj challenged Hanuman to a duel before allowing him to enter the palace. Impressed by Makardhwaj’s unwavering loyalty and dedication, Hanuman blessed him. A fierce battle took place between them, in which Hanuman emerged victorious.

Panchmukhi Hanuman in the Battle with Ahiravan

Vibhishan had told Hanuman about the source of Ahiravan’s power. It came from five lamps in the Patal. These lamps were placed in five directions. To end his magical powers, it was necessary to extinguish all five burning lamps with a single breath. To accomplish this seemingly impossible task, Hanuman assumed the Panchmukhi form and extinguished all the lamps with one breath.

Significance of the Five Faces of Panchmukhi Hanuman

The five faces of Panchmukhi Hanumanji face five different directions and hold different significance:
Vanar Face: This face faces the east and grants victory over enemies.
Garuda Face: This face faces the west and destroys obstacles and troubles of life.
Varaha Face: This face faces the north and grants longevity, fame, and strength.
Narasimha Face: This face faces the south and removes fear, stress, and difficulties.
Horse Face: This face faces upward toward the sky and fulfills desires.

Panchmukhi Hanuman Worship Method

One should always place the idol or picture of Panchmukhi Hanumanji in the south direction. Tuesday is a special day for the worship of Hanumanji; on this day, offering red flowers, vermilion, and jasmine oil holds special importance. Along with this, one should offer jaggery and roasted gram and recite Sundarkand or Hanuman Chalisa to receive special benefits. Additionally, placing a picture of Panchmukhi Hanuman in the southwest corner of the house removes all types of Vastu defects.