Why Devotees Chant These 12 Names of Hanuman Against Fear

Noopur Kumari | Aug 15, 2026, 07:00 IST
According to the devotional account shared in the tradition of Ananda Ramayana, Goddess Parvati asks Lord Shiva what a person should do when overwhelmed by fear and suffering. The answer points toward remembering Lord Hanuman through twelve sacred names. The names describe different qualities and heroic deeds of Hanuman, from his divine birth and immense strength to his devotion to Lord Rama and his role in protecting others. For devotees, chanting these names is not merely a ritual. It is a way of remembering courage, devotion, service and faith during difficult moments.
Sacred Names of Lord Hanuman
Sacred Names of Lord Hanuman
Image credit : ChatGPT(ai)
Fear can appear in many forms. It may come from uncertainty, financial worries, illness, hidden enemies or difficult situations that leave the mind restless. In Hindu devotional tradition, the names of Lord Hanuman are remembered as a source of courage, strength and protection. A well-known devotional tradition speaks of twelve sacred names of Hanuman and their remembrance during the three daily periods of worship. The story is especially associated with the idea that sincere remembrance of Bajrangbali can give devotees inner courage when they feel surrounded by fear and difficulty.


The Question That Began the Teaching



Hanuman Ji Worship During Surya Grahan
Hanuman Ji Worship During Surya Grahan
Image credit : chatgpt(ai)

The story begins with Goddess Parvati asking Lord Shiva about people who are overwhelmed by fear, suffering and difficult circumstances. The concern includes people facing uncertainty, danger, financial troubles and other sources of anxiety. In the devotional narrative, Shiva points toward the remembrance of Lord Hanuman and his sacred names. The teaching reflects a central idea of bhakti: when the mind becomes frightened, remembering a powerful and compassionate divine figure can strengthen faith. For devotees, Hanuman represents courage, loyalty and the determination to face even the most difficult circumstances without surrendering to fear.


Why Hanuman’s Names Are Remembered



Devotee Offering Jaggery to Hanuman Ji
Devotee Offering Jaggery to Hanuman Ji

The twelve names are meaningful because they do more than identify Hanuman. Each one recalls an aspect of his divine character. Some refer to his parentage, some to his extraordinary strength, and others to his devotion and heroic deeds in the Ramayana. Names such as Anjanisut remember his connection with Mata Anjana, while Vayuputra recalls his association with the wind god. Mahabala points to his immense strength, while Rameshta reflects his deep devotion to Lord Rama. Together, these names create a powerful remembrance of Hanuman’s courage, devotion and service.

The First Six Sacred Names

The first six names in the commonly recited list are Hanuman, Anjanisut, Vayuputra, Mahabala, Rameshta and Phalguna Sakha. Hanuman is associated with his distinctive divine identity, while Anjanisut means the son of Anjana. Vayuputra refers to his connection with Vayu, and Mahabala highlights his great strength. Rameshta expresses his devotion to Lord Rama, while Phalguna Sakha means the friend of Arjuna, reflecting another traditional association. These names remind devotees that Hanuman’s greatest power was not physical strength alone. His devotion, loyalty and willingness to serve were equally central to his greatness.

The Next Six Names

The remaining six names are Pingaksha, Amitavikrama, Udadhikramana, Sitashokavinashaka, Lakshmana Pranadata and Dashagriva Darpaha. Pingaksha refers to his distinctive eyes, while Amitavikrama describes his immeasurable valour. Udadhikramana recalls his famous crossing of the ocean. Sitashokavinashaka refers to his role in bringing hope to Sita and easing her sorrow. Lakshmana Pranadata remembers his life-saving mission for Lakshmana. Dashagriva Darpaha refers to the destruction of the pride of the ten-headed Ravana. Each name connects devotion with a remarkable act of courage.

The Names and the Power of Memory

For devotees, chanting Hanuman’s names can become a powerful spiritual practice during difficult moments. The purpose is not simply to repeat words, but to remember the qualities represented by those names. When someone recalls Hanuman’s courage, they may find strength to face fear. When they remember his devotion to Rama, they may feel encouraged to remain faithful to their responsibilities. When they remember his service to Sita and Lakshmana, they are reminded of compassion and selflessness. In this sense, devotional chanting can help shift attention away from fear and toward courage, faith and purposeful action.

Why the Practice Feels Powerful

The traditional practice recommends remembering Hanuman through his sacred names at regular times of the day. Devotees believe that sincere remembrance can protect them from fear and bring spiritual strength. From a devotional perspective, Hanuman is not simply a symbol of physical power. He represents fearlessness born from complete surrender to Lord Rama. Repeating his names can therefore become a daily reminder that difficult situations do not have to control the mind. The practice encourages steadiness, faith and courage, helping devotees approach challenges with a stronger sense of hope and inner confidence.

The Deeper Message of the Twelve Names

The deeper message behind these twelve names goes beyond protection from fear. Each name tells part of Hanuman’s story and reveals a quality that devotees can try to cultivate in their own lives. His strength teaches courage, his devotion teaches surrender, his service teaches humility and his determination teaches perseverance. Remembering Hanuman therefore becomes a way of remembering these qualities within ourselves. Whether recited during prayer or remembered silently during a difficult moment, the names can serve as a spiritual reminder that fear does not have to be stronger than faith.

The Twelve Names at a Glance


Hanuman
Anjanisut
Vayuputra
Mahabala
Rameshta
Phalguna Sakha
Pingaksha
Amitavikrama
Udadhikramana
Sitashokavinashaka
Lakshmana Pranadata
Dashagriva Darpaha


Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at My Life XP

Read More

Latest Stories

Featured