Hanuman Ansh - Wander like a river

Hanuman Ansh

Hindi, 2026

Genre: Devotional 

Director: Vishal Chathurvedi

Stars: Shobhinaw Satyaa, Chandan Anand, Purnima Tiwari, Vihaan Sledge

Mohan's Measure ⭐⭐⭐

The large exodus of South Indian Brahmins to the US in the 70s and 80s could be explained as a response to increased reservation. What could not be explained was their disdain, for their heritage in general, and in particular the curiosity of a certain Telugu American man,  who like any average American, wanted to learn about his roots. It was in that overarching sense of ostracism that I found solace among the post-Hippie New Age. And, in and among this collective of Hare Krishnas and disillusioned Abrahamics was Taos Hanuman and Neem Karoli Baba. 

Hanuman Ansh is the first in what is planned to be a series of films about this Babaji and his incredible stories of his encounters, not with God, but his fellow human beings. Through simple vignettes we witness how from a young age, this simple, altruistic sage brought good to all he met. 

Newcomer Mr. Satyaa is perfect for the role of this young man portraying him as someone of innocence, home spun wisdom, and a hint of sarcasm. He wants nothing more to live the life the way his guru instructs him, wandering from place to place, meditating intensely, and using his siddhis to bring some good to the lives of the poor and  downtrodden.

The plot of this movie moves like he does, like a slow moving stream on a hot sunny day, lazily, almost without purpose. There is a calming sensation to seeing this film, and the acting and scenery only add to the serenity. But it leaves many questions. This is especially the case with his returning to his betrothed. Why he returned, why he renounced his monkhood, and why he returned to sanyasam again is never well explained. It remains enigmatic, hints are suggested of doing so merely out of obligation. Yet, he admits to loving his wife, to the point that the blanket she gives him is the one he wears for the rest of his life. It is without doubt intended for a sequel, and part 2 is very much in the works. 

As for me, a reminder of a lonely past.  But after knowing this movie has made more money than Dhurandar, I return to a happier present. 

SitaRam.