Dara Singh‘s Hanuman in Ramayan (1987) became a cult character. His giant frame and unshakeable commitment made him the ultimate face of Hanuman. The series became a record-breaking hit, attracting more than 650 million international viewers, a record yet to be broken by any Indian mythological show.
His on-screen presence was so powerful that even now, people cannot imagine any other face playing the role of Hanuman. This is such a deep-rooted image that Dara Singh has created in the minds of people about the deity that his family members have been portraying him as Hanuman for more than three decades now, making it the longest-running image association in Indian entertainment.
Continuing the Tradition
Vindu Dara Singh assumed responsibility in Jai Veer Hanuman (1996), a cult phenomenon on Sony Entertainment Television that consolidated the family’s identification with the mythological figure. Over two decades down the line, he continues to be a part of Ramleela’s performances throughout India, making sure that the legacy of his father lives on.
Unlike modern adaptations that rely heavily on CGI, Vindu’s portrayal maintained the essence of Hanuman—physically robust yet emotionally profound. His commitment to the role has kept him up-to-date in devotional circles, where he is often featured in mythological discourse and public affairs dedicated to Hanuman.
Other Actors Who Played Hanuman & The Singh Family’s Dominance
Several actors have attempted to step into the role of Hanuman, but none have matched the authenticity of the Singh family. Raj Premji portrayed Hanuman in Mahabharat (1988), and Nirbhay Wadhwa played the character in Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman (2015). While these performances were commendable, they lacked the sheer cultural impact of Dara Singh’s portrayal.
Even actors in modern adaptations struggle to create the same emotional connection. Many rely on special effects and prosthetics, but audiences still associate Hanuman with the raw strength and devotion seen in the Singh family’s portrayals.
Why TV Struggles to Find the Next Hanuman
Despite multiple attempts, no actor has matched Dara Singh’s aura as Hanuman. Mythological shows today prioritize visual grandeur over compelling performances, making it difficult for any actor to establish an authentic connection with the audience.
While big-budget productions attempt to recreate the magic, they often lack the simplicity and emotional depth that made Ramayan and Jai Hanuman so memorable. As a result, audiences still associate the role with the Singh family, leaving a vacuum in contemporary mythological content.
Branding & Hanuman: A Powerful Connection
Hanuman symbolises courage, fidelity, and endurance and is highly sought after in brand promotions. Admired for his divine portrayal, Dara Singh was featured as the ambassador for numerous devotional and family-based products, increasing his trust, value and authenticity.
Vindu Dara Singh has leveraged this heritage by associating himself with fitness and spirituality-oriented brands. His engagement with religious activity and public outings only adds more depth to his role as the contemporary Hanuman. These personalities are still valuable investments for companies wishing to appeal to faith-conscious markets.
Content & Advertising: Changing Trends
With the advent of digital media, the mythological world has undergone a change. Cartoon versions such as Hanuman (2005) and Hanuman Da’ Damdaar (2017) appeal to children but do not have the same emotional pull as live-action versions.
Brands have shifted from direct endorsements to storytelling-driven campaigns that subtly incorporate Hanuman’s values. Rather than using a celebrity to represent the deity, advertisers now focus on invoking Hanuman’s virtues—strength, resilience, and wisdom—through creative narratives.
Also Read: Faith and Innovation: Sri Mandir’s Rise in India’s $50 Billion Devotional Market
Can Prasar Bharati Revive Mythological Epics?
With Prasar Bharati entering the OTT space, there is scope for a resurgence of big mythological epics. The platform, supported by India’s national broadcaster, has the gravitas to create content based on cultural authenticity.
However, the challenge remains—will it invest in high-quality productions that capture the essence of mythological storytelling, or will it struggle to stand out in an already crowded OTT space? If executed well, a Hanuman-centric show could be a game-changer for Indian devotional content.
The Big Question: Who Will Be the Next Hanuman?
The search continues for a modern Hanuman—an icon who resonates with today’s generation and leaves a lasting impact. The advertising industry awaits such a towering figure. Until then, the Dara family’s legacy remains unchallenged.
Also Read: Jitendra Kumar: The Everyman of OTT
