Panchmukhi Hanuman (five faced Hanuman) is one of his virat (gigantic) forms. It is believed that if one worships Panchamukhi Hanuman form, he or she is liberated from all fears, negativity, and enemies. Panchmukhi Hanuman Ramayana story: During the Lanka war, when Ravana began to lose, he called one of his brothers, Ahiravana – the Chief of Patala (netherworld). Ahiravana disguised as Vibhishan and kidnapped Shri Rama and Lakshman and took the sub-conscious Shri Ram and Lakshman to Patala.  When Hanuman went to Patala to look for Shri Ram and Laxman, he learned that Ahiravan‘s soul rested in five candles. Ahiravan can be killed only if the five candles are extinguished at the same time. That is when Hanuman manifested his Panchamukhi form – each form facing a different direction. Together, they blew out the candles and brought back the still-unconscious Lord Rama and Lakshman back to Lanka. Panchmukhi Hanuman – The five faces: The five faces staring in different directions belong to different gods:

1. Lord Hanuman: He faces eastwards with steadfast devotion. Worshiping Hanuman helps one to get rid of one’s sins and bestows peace, purity, happiness, and fulfillment.
2. Lord Narasimha: One of the many avatars of Lord Vishnu, this lion form is south facing. Lord Vishnu took this form to protect his devotee, Prahlada. Worshipping Narasimha removes fear. Fearlessness and victory are the blessings showered on the devotee.
3. Lord Garuda: Facing west, the Garuda or eagle is part of the Panchmukhi Hanuman manifestation. He offers protection from negative influences, black magic, and evil spirits.
4. Lord Adivaraha: The boar is another manifestation and is believed to remove the bad effects of planetary movements. Facing the north, Varaha bestows wealth and prosperity.
5. Lord Hayagriva: The form of the horse faces upward, blessing one with knowledge, progeny and liberation.