The Panchamukhi Anjaneya Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman in his distinctive five-faced (Panchamukhi) form. It is situated near the historic Raichur Fort in Raichur district, Karnataka.
The Panchamukhi form of Lord Hanuman, known as Panchamukhi Anjaneya, is believed to symbolize protection, strength, and unwavering devotio.
The Panchamukhi Anjaneya form is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, where it is believed that Lord Hanuman assumed this five-faced form to defeat the powerful demon Mahiravana. Mahiravana, a sorcerer, had captured Lord Rama and Lakshmana and held them captive in his netherworld palace.
To defeat Mahiravana, who could only be slain when five lamps were extinguished at once, Lord Hanuman assumed his five-faced form. This allowed him to extinguish all five lamps simultaneously, thereby rescuing Lord Rama and Lakshmana from captivity.