The Divine Lineage: The Brothers of Lord Hanuman
Exploring the Vedic and Puranic references of the Anjani-Sutras
Lord Hanuman, the 11th Rudra avatar of Shiva, is widely known as ‘Anjaniputra’ (Son of Anjana) and ‘Vayuputra’ (Son of the Wind). While popular folklore often focuses solely on Hanuman ji, ancient scriptures like the Brahmanda Purana and references in Vedic commentaries mention that Hanuman had five brothers.
The Five Brothers of Hanuman
According to the Brahmanda Purana, Hanuman was the eldest, followed by:
Where are they mentioned?
1. The Vedas and Brahmanas: In the Rigveda and Taittiriya Aranyaka, the concept of Vayu (Wind) having multiple manifestations is discussed. While they don’t always name them as biological brothers in a human sense, they are described as the various “Pranas” or life forces that are “brothers” in essence to the Chief Prana (Hanuman).
2. The Upanishads: The Muktikā Upanishad discusses the lineage of Rama-bhaktas. However, the most explicit details of Hanuman’s siblings come from the Puranas, which act as the explanatory extensions of the Vedas for the common man.
3. The Spiritual “Brother” – Bhima: In the Mahabharata (Vana Parva), Bhima is recognized as Hanuman’s spiritual brother, as both were born through the grace and energy of Vayu Dev.
Quick Summary Highlights:
- Total Siblings: Hanuman had 5 younger brothers.
- Primary Source: The Brahmanda Purana (Anushasana Parva).
- Spiritual Link: Bhima is considered his “Bhaat” (brother) via Vayu-Tattva.
- Father: All were sons of Vanar-Raj Kesari and Mata Anjana.
