Hanuman Jayanti: Some lesser-known facts about Bajrangbali

Name Reflects an Injury

The name Hanuman comes from Sanskrit words meaning disfigured jaw. As a child, Hanuman mistook the sun for a fruit and flew to grab it. Lord Indra, fearing chaos, struck him down with his thunderbolt, injuring his jaw.

Love for Lord Ram

According to mythological beliefs, it is said that once Lord Yama came to take Lord Rama for heavenly abode. And restricted him to enter Ayodhya, then Lord Ram had to trick him to let the Lord Yama enter.

Lord Hanuman Had Brothers

While Hanuman is often portrayed alone, he had five biological brothers according to the Brahmanda Purana.

More Than Just Strength

We know Hanuman for his immense strength, but he was also a scholar and yogi. Hes credited with creating the Surya Namaskar (sun salutation) as an offering to his teacher, Lord Sun.

Obedience

Once Lord Hanuman saw Goddess Sita applying Kumkum on her forehead for longevity of Lord Rama, after question her about it, Lord Hanuman applied Kumkum all over his body as a way of protecting Lord Ramas life. Thats how he came to be known as Bajrang Bali.

A Brush with Death

As per scriptures, the sage Narada advised Hanuman to disrespect a particular sage, unknowingly offending Vishwamitra. Vishwamitra, a former king, demanded Hanumans death from Lord Rama. But with his loyalty and immense devotion, Lord Hanuman convinced both Rama and Vishwamitra.