Hanumān is a complex deity who is venerated today throughout the Hindu world. Although he is best known as the prominent vānara or “monkey” hero who reverently serves the human prince Rāma, the seventh avatāra of Viṣṇu, and his wife, Sītā, in the body of epic narratives, visual representations, and performances that collectively comprise the Rāmāyaṇa storytelling tradition, Hanumān is also widely worshipped in diverse mythological roles and reli…