Hanuman was an ardent devotee of Lord Rama according to the Hindu legends. He is a central character in the great Indian epic Ramayana and its various versions. The name, Hanuman is derived from the Sanskrit words: 'Han' and 'Mana'. 'Han' means killed or destroyed and 'Mana' means pride. So the name, Hanuman implies that 'one whose pride was destroyed'. Hanuman participated in Lord Rama's war against the demon king Ravana; and played a pivotal role in winning that great battle. Hanuman's mother was Anjani and father was Keshari. He is considered as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Vayu Dev was also his God-father who played an important role in his birth. Hanuman was very intelligent and wise from his childhood. He was a worshipper and devotee of Lord Rama and an embodiment of devotion and sacrifice. Hanuman had a special place in the heart of Lord Rama. Even today the idol of Hanuman, God of Protection, is found in each temple of Lord Rama. Hanuman is worshipped to get rid of or win over demons, demi-gods, evil spirits and other powerful negative energies.