"This Kavach is derived from the conversation between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is stated that the Panchmukhi form was taken by Hanuman to extinguish the five lamps in Patala (the netherworld) to kill the demon Ahiravana. The Kavach is essentially a Tantra text, mapping the five faces to five directions and five specific protections. In the Bengali tradition, the recitation is accompanied by specific Nyasas (placing mantras on body parts) to energetically shield the chanter."