Mythological Superheroes: Hanuman in Indian Cinema

Every God is known for his peculiar powers and fascinating chronicles.

Let’s explore one of the most popular Gods in India and their legends which were beautifully portrayed in Homi Wadia films of Classic and Retro Era.

Known as the son of Wind God or Pawanputra, his mischievous childhood posed a danger to the entire world as he was almost about to gobble the Sun down his mouth!

Upon growing up, he became an ardent devotee of Lord, Rama and accomplished unthinkable tasks to bring back Rama’s wife, Sita from the clutches of the powerful Demon god Ravana!

By simply using his tail, he set ablaze the entirity of Lanka, the grand Empire of Ravana to instigate him to give up Sita, whom he had abducted.

Such were the chronicles of Hanuman, that he is considered as one of the most loved superheroes of Indian Mythology.

And to play a mythological icon in Cinema is challenging, too, considering the audience already has a fantasised perception about the character.

In the film, 'Mahabali Hanuman' (1981), the Indian actor popularly known as Hercules, played the role of Hanuman.

Hercules used to be a garment designer, noted for saris. Because of his muscular build, he was pulled into films around 1951 by stunt action instructors Douglas (equestrian) and Azeembhai (fencing), initially to play substitutes. He was later considered for feature roles, especially after Johny Walker and Guru Dutt noticed him.

Suffice to say, Hercules managed to embody the lead role of Hanuman in the film memorably.