The Vanara chief who was the earthly father of Hanuman.
Accounts of this vary across texts and traditions. This entry primarily follows Valmiki Ramayana, with other tellings (Ramcharitmanas (Tulsidas), Regional and folk traditions) noted where relevant.
Kesari is a Vanara chief and the husband of Anjana. He is the earthly father of Hanuman, whose divine father is the wind god Vayu. In the Kishkindha Kanda he is described as the son of the sage Brihaspati.
Kesari is associated with the mountain called Sumeru and is said to have defeated a powerful elephant that had been harassing sages, which earned him praise.
This entry is independently written for myVamsam using the sources listed above. Where traditions differ, this entry identifies the relevant tradition rather than presenting one account as universally established fact.