How Did Hanumanji Manifest His Panchmukhi Form? What Are the Benefits of Worshiping Him?

In Kaliyuga, people regard Hanumanji as a deity who quickly grants blessings. With his grace, one can overcome sorrow, fear, and poverty. According to certain mythological beliefs, Hanumanji also took on a Panchmukhi (five-headed) form. Each of these five faces represents different directions and illustrates Hanumanji’s immense form. Let’s explore the story of Hanumanji’s Panchmukhi avatar and the mantras that help in achieving various goals.

Hanuman Avatar

Some ancient tales narrate that during the battle between Lord Ram and Ravan, Ravan sought help from his ally Ahiravan, a powerful sorcerer. Using his magic, Ahiravan put Lord Ram’s entire army to sleep and kidnapped Ram and Lakshman, hiding them in the netherworld (Paatal Lok). At this time, Ahiravan had lit five lamps in five different directions, and he had received a boon that he could only be killed if all five lamps were extinguished simultaneously. To rescue Ram and Lakshman, Hanumanji descended into Paatal and assumed a Panchmukhi form to blow out all five lamps at once. After that, he fought Ahiravan and killed him, freeing Ram and Lakshman.

The Five Faces of Hanuman

Panchmukhi Hanuman took on five faces, each representing different aspects:

Vanar Mukha (Monkey Face): This face faces east and is believed to grant victory over enemies.

Garud Mukha (Eagle Face): Positioned to the west, this face helps eliminate obstacles and difficulties in life.

Varah Mukha (Boar Face): The north face, known for providing wealth, prosperity, and happiness.

Narasimha Mukha (Lion Face): The south face, worshiping which alleviates stress and protects against evil spirits.

Hayagriva Mukha (Horse Face): Facing upward, this face is said to fulfill desires and aspirations.

Mantras for Worshiping Panchmukhi Hanuman

To overcome life’s obstacles, one can chant the Shri Panchmukhi Hanuman Gayatri mantra:

“Om Anjaney Vidmahe Panchavaktaray Dhimahi Tanno Hanumath Prachodayat”

One can also individually invoke the five forms of Hanuman through specific Gayatri mantras.

Special Gayatri Mantra for Hanuman:
“Shri Anjaney Vidmahe Mahabalay Dhimahi Tanno Kapi Prachodayat”

Narasimha Gayatri Mantra:
“Vajranakhaya Vidmahe Teekshnadamshtraray Dhimahi Tanno Narasimha Prachodayat”

Garud Gayatri Mantra:
“Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Suvarnapakshay Dhimahi Tanno Garudah Prachodayat”

Varah Gayatri Mantra:
“Om Dhanurdharay Vidmahe Vakradamshyara Dhimahi Tanno Varah Prachodayat”

Hayagriva Mantra:
“Om Vagishwaraya Vidmahe Hayagrivaya Dhimahi Tanno Hamsa Prachodayat”

For anyone troubled by negative forces and seeking protection from fear, enemies, or black magic, Panchmukhi Hanuman stands as a protector. He safeguards those who seek his refuge.