When we think of heroes, most of us imagine modern-day icons like Spiderman swinging through city streets, Batman lurking in the shadows of Gotham, or Superman soaring high above the clouds. For generations in the West, these comic book characters have been part of childhood — first on paper, then on the big screen.
But in South Asia, long before Hollywood created its superheroes, we already had one of our own. Not a man in a mask or a suit, but a divine monkey with extraordinary powers and a heart full of devotion. His name is Hanuman.
Hanuman is no ordinary hero. While Western characters get their powers from accidents, alien origins, or clever gadgets, Hanuman was blessed at birth. Known as Pawanputra Hanuman — the son of the wind god — he could leap across oceans, lift mountains, and shrink or expand his form at will. But what makes him truly remarkable is not just his strength, but his loyalty, humility, and unshakable faith in his lord, Rama.
Even today, Hanuman remains one of the most beloved and revered figures in Hindu culture. His story, as told in the Ramayana, continues to inspire people with its message of courage, devotion, and selfless service.
Hanuman in Kathmandu: The Ever-Present Guardian
If you have walked around the Kathmandu Valley, chances are you have seen Hanuman’s statues. Painted in vivid orange or red, they stand watch at temples, ghats, and even royal palaces. Perhaps the most famous of them all is the statue outside the old royal palace of Kathmandu, placed there by King Pratap Malla in 1672. Since then, the palace itself has been known as Hanuman Dhoka, meaning “the gate of Hanuman.”
But his presence isn’t limited to the palace gates. You’ll find him standing guard at Swoyambhunath near the giant Buddha statue, watching over the Bagh Bhairab temple in Kirtipur, and carved into the wooden struts of temples in Panauti. One of the largest Hanuman statues in the valley is at Shankhamul Ghat in Patan, placed there in the 19th century. Wherever you go, Hanuman is there — a silent protector, watching over the faithful.
Why Women Don’t Worship Hanuman Directly
One unique aspect of Hanuman’s worship is that women generally do not perform rituals to him or even touch his image. This comes from his vow of lifelong celibacy, taken when he was just a boy. Known as a bal brahmachari, Hanuman chose to devote himself entirely to spiritual pursuits and the service of Rama, renouncing all worldly desires.
This part of his character is central to how devotees see him — not just as a hero, but as an example of discipline, focus, and single-minded devotion. For many, he’s a reminder that real strength comes from within and that spiritual goals are worth more than fleeting pleasures.
Hanuman’s Greatest Adventures
Hanuman’s most famous deeds come from the Ramayana, one of India’s greatest epics. The story takes place during an age when Rama, an incarnation of the god Vishnu, is exiled to the forest with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana. When the demon king Ravana kidnaps Sita and takes her to his island kingdom of Lanka, Rama calls on Hanuman for help.
Hanuman’s heroism shines through at every turn. Using his ability to fly, he leaps over the ocean to reach Lanka and find Sita. When captured and mocked by Ravana, he turns the tables by setting Lanka ablaze with his burning tail before returning to Rama’s camp with news of Sita’s whereabouts.
Later in the war, when Lakshmana is gravely wounded and only a rare Himalayan herb can save him, Hanuman again rises to the challenge. Unsure of which plant to pick, he simply lifts the entire hill and brings it back, ensuring Lakshmana’s life is saved and Rama’s battle can continue.
These stories have been told and retold for centuries, and for good reason. They show that Hanuman is more than just muscle — he is quick-thinking, brave, and utterly selfless.
Why Hanuman Still Matters
Even today, Hanuman remains deeply loved across South Asia and beyond. People pray to him for strength, courage, and protection from harm. His statues are not just decorative — they stand as symbols of hope and reminders of the values he embodies.
Hanuman teaches us that real heroism comes from service, that loyalty and faith can move mountains (or carry them!), and that humility is more powerful than pride. His vow of celibacy reminds us of the value of self-control and spiritual discipline in a world full of distractions.
Whether you see him as a mighty warrior who burned down a city to save his lord, or as the humble servant carrying a hill to save a friend’s life, Hanuman’s story is timeless. He shows us that even the most impossible challenges can be overcome with courage, faith, and determination.
Hanuman in Everyday Life
In the Kathmandu Valley, Hanuman continues to guard the gates of temples, palaces, and sacred rivers. His bright orange image greets worshippers at Pashupatinath, Swoyambhunath, and countless other sites. Every Ram temple has his presence, a testament to his unwavering service to Rama.
And it is not just in Nepal. Across India, and even in parts of Southeast Asia like Thailand and Indonesia, Hanuman’s story is kept alive in festivals, dances, and temple rituals. From ancient texts to modern minds, he continues to inspire those who hear his story.
A Hero For All Time
Long before Hollywood gave us Superman and Batman, Hanuman was showing the world what a real hero looks like. Strong but humble, fearless but devoted, powerful but always in the service of others.
In a world that can feel chaotic and uncertain, Hanuman reminds us of the importance of staying true to what’s right, helping others, and keeping faith even when the odds seem impossible. His story is not just an ancient myth — it’s a guide for living with courage and compassion today.
So the next time you see his bright orange figure at a temple gate, take a moment to remember the monkey god who leapt across oceans, carried mountains, and set cities aflame — all for love, loyalty, and the greater good.
