Hanuman, the mighty vanara warrior and embodiment of devotion in Hindu mythology, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. But did you know that this famed devotee of Lord Rama wasn’t alone? According to some accounts, Hanuman had five brothers, each with their own unique story. Who are Hanuman’s 5 Brothers? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Hanuman’s family and uncover the identities of his siblings.
Where does the story come from?
The mention of Hanuman’s brothers appears in the Brahma Purana, an ancient text detailing the lineage of gods and deities. While the Ramayana and Mahabharata, the two epic poems central to Hindu mythology, do not explicitly mention them, the Brahma Purana sheds light on their existence.
Who are Hanuman’s 5 Brothers?
According to the text, Hanuman’s father, Kesari, had six sons. Hanuman, the eldest, was born through the divine intervention of Pawan Dev, the wind god. His five brothers, each with their own distinct qualities, were:
The Brahma Purana also mentions that all five brothers were married and had children, leading to a long and illustrious lineage descended from Kesari. let’s explore what we know and delve into potential interpretations of Who are Hanuman’s 5 Brothers? and how they were depicted in detail:
Matiman:
Known for his wisdom and intelligence. This could mean he was a wise counselor, offering sage advice and strategic insights to Hanuman and others.
Some interpretations associate him with the moon, symbolizing calmness, introspection, and knowledge gathered through reflection.
Shrutiman:
Renowned for his exceptional memory and knowledge of the Vedas. This suggests he was perhaps a scholar, deeply versed in scriptures and ancient lore.
He could be linked to the element of fire, representing the burning flames of knowledge and the illumination gained through deep study.
Ketuman:
Famous for his immense speed and agility. This implies he was a swift warrior, capable of outmanoeuvring enemies and traversing vast distances quickly.
Some associate him with the wind, reflecting his swiftness and connection to Hanuman’s divine father, Pawan Dev.
Gatiman:
Characterized by his immense strength and valor. This portrays him as a powerful warrior, standing alongside Hanuman in battles and displaying immense courage.
He could be connected to the element of earth, symbolizing his grounded strength and unwavering resolve.
Dhritiman:
Possessed unwavering courage and determination. This depicts him as a steadfast warrior, undeterred by challenges and committed to upholding righteousness.
Some link him to the element of water, signifying his adaptability and unwavering presence amidst changing circumstances.
Beyond the Brahma Purana:
While the Brahma Purana provides the most detailed account of Hanuman’s brothers, other texts offer different perspectives. Some regional variations portray them as warriors who fought alongside Hanuman during the Ramayana war. Others suggest they were sages or spiritual figures who guided him on his journey.
The Significance of Hanuman’s Brothers:
While less prominent than Hanuman himself, his brothers serve as important figures in expanding our understanding of his family and lineage. They highlight the strength and resilience of the vanara race and add another layer of depth to the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology.
Conclusion:
Whether viewed as literal figures or symbolic representations, the story of Hanuman’s brothers adds a fascinating dimension to his legendary stature. It reminds us that even the most revered figures often have a rich family history and community that shapes their journey.
FAQ
No, the Ramayana and Mahabharata do not explicitly mention them. However, the Brahma Purana, another important Hindu text, details their existence.
The Brahma Purana mentions five brothers: Matiman, Shrutiman, Ketuman, Gatiman, and Dhritiman.
While not as prominent as Hanuman himself, they offer valuable insights into his family lineage and the vanara race. Some regional variations depict them as warriors or sages, adding to the richness of Hindu mythology.
As with most figures in Hindu mythology, the existence of Hanuman’s brothers is based on religious texts and oral traditions. Historical evidence is scarce.