Why do Hindu Gods have multiple heads?

This morning I received Tuesday greetings from some friends with a picture of Lord Hanuman. 

(Many people consider Tuesday as Lord Hanuman's day)

What caught my eyes, however, was that the Lord Hanuman in this picture was depicted with not one - but many heads. 

In fact, many Hindu Gods like Brahma, Vishnu, Mahadev, and Durga are often portrayed with multiple heads, each facing a different direction. 

I have seen some people laughing and questioning such images - calling them unrealistic and even stupidity. 

However, this depiction carries profound symbolism.

To understand this, we must first appreciate the creativity of ancient Hindus. 

Through stories and imagery, they conveyed complex ideas in ways that resonated deeply with their audiences.

The term 'Dev or Devtaa is often translated into English as "god," typically written with a lowercase 'g' to distinguish it from the singular God of Judeo-Christian-Islamic traditions. 

However, the literal meaning of Devtaa is "Provider" (Denewala).

Natural elements such as the sun, fire, water, earth, air, and plants are regarded as Devtaas because they sustain life on earth. They provide the essentials required for survival, making life possible.

Similarly, a benevolent leader—a king or ruler who ensures the safety and well-being of their people and guides them toward righteousness—can also be considered a Devtaa.
And a Devtaa, by definition, must be observant.
The depiction of multiple heads symbolizes the qualities a Devtaa must embody.

To lead wisely, they must observe their surroundings thoroughly -

consider all perspectives, and explore every possibility to choose the best path. 

The many heads facing different directions are a visual metaphor for this ability to see and understand all aspects of the world around them.

Before criticizing and laughing, we should try to understand and adopt the hidden meanings behind such images and metaphors.  

                                              " Rajan Sachdeva "