Hanuman Jayanti special. Hanuman Jayanti story in English.
Hanuman Jayanti: Lord Hanuman Birth Story, Eight Siddhis, Powers, Immortality & Devotion
TABLE OF CONTENTS:-
- Birth of Lord Hanuman
- Hanuman's Childhood
- Hanuman and the Sun
- Hanuman and Vayu
- Hanuman's Gurus
- Hanuman's Five Brothers
- Hanuman's Immense Strength
- Hanuman's Eight Siddhis
- Hanuman's Immortality
- Hanuman and Rama's Devotion
- Hanuman and the Red Flag
- Hanuman and the Vajra
- Hanuman and Makardhwaja
- Hanuman and Garuda
- Hanuman's Intelligence
- Hanumad Ramayana
- Hanuman and Sita
- Hanuman's role in Lanka
- Hanuman and Sanjeevani
- Lesser-known stories of Hanuman
- Frequently Asked Questions
In Indian scriptures, Lord Hanuman is described as the son of the wind god or the son of Vayu. In the Balakanda of the Ramayana, Sage Valmiki has also narrated that Lord Brahma commanded the gods to take human form as Lord Vishnu and incarnate as the sons of Dasharatha to slay Ravana, in response to your prayers.
All the gods agreed to assist in this mission by making avatars in various forms such as bears, monkeys, etc., on Earth. It is also mentioned that Hanuman was born from the womb of Anjana through the grace of Vayu. The Skanda and Avyakta Puranas also narrate that Kesari's wife Anjana, distressed by her childlessness, approached Sage Matanga and sought a solution. Sage Matanga instructed her to perform penance at a hermitage near the Pampa Lake, where after twelve years of penance, she would be blessed with a virtuous son.
Following his advice, Anjana went to Narayana Hill, bathed in the Swami Tirtha, paid obeisance to Lord Varaha, and followed her husband's command to fast and engage in external renunciation while performing penance. After twelve years of penance, pleased with her devotion, the wind god granted her the boon of a son. As a result, Anjana gave birth to an excellent son, named Hanuman, as per the instructions of the sages.
The Brahmanda Purana provides a slightly different account. According to it, during the Treta Yuga, an asura named Kesari performed intense penance, chanting a mantra to please Lord Shiva for a son. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before him and offered a boon. Kesari requested a powerful, victorious, courageous, and intelligent son. Lord Shiva granted his wish, stating that he couldn't grant a son directly due to fate, but assured him that he would have a daughter who would give birth to the desired son.
Subsequently, a daughter was born to Kesari, named Anjana, who grew up
resembling the brightening moon. Kesari cherished his daughter dearly. Time
passed, and one day, the mighty Vanara named Kesari requested the hand of
Anjana in marriage. Delighted, the king of demons gladly gave his daughter in
marriage to Kesari. They spent much time together, but Anjana remained
childless.
Once, Dharmadevata Pulakshi, disguised as a wild low-caste woman, arrived. She carried a balance in one hand and a winnow in the other. She loudly announced that anyone seeking to know their fate could ask her, and she would reveal what was written in their destiny. Observing everyone's palm lines and predicting their futures, she reached Anjana. Anjana respectfully welcomed her, offered her a comfortable seat, and after satisfying her with various offerings, asked about her fate.
Pulakshi assured her that she would indeed have a powerful son and advised her to continue her penance. She suggested that Anjana perform penance at Venkatachala, where her desired son would be born after seven thousand years of penance. Upon hearing this, Anjana was overjoyed and informed Kesari. Delighted, Kesari eagerly awaited the birth of his son. Anjana's pregnancy progressed, and after ten months, on the eleventh day of the Shraavana month under the Shravana constellation, she gave birth to a son who resembled a golden-colored monkey, with features, face, tail, and lower body similar to a monkey.
Hanuman's birth stories vary in the
Puranas, but they are all considered true. We should worship him with devotion.
The lifespan of Hanuman and the mysteries surrounding it
have been a subject of discussion. Although Hanuman is considered one of the
Chiranjeevi (immortal beings) alongside Ashwatthama, Bali, Vyasa, Vibhishana,
Kripacharya, Parashurama, and Markandeya, merely labeling him as immortal or
eternal is not sufficient. After the victory in Lanka, Hanuman expressed his
desire to always remain devoted to Lord Rama and receive his blessing to live
as long as the story of Rama remains prevalent in the world. Lord Rama assured
him that as long as his story is told, Hanuman's fame and presence will endure,
and he will remain alive. Indra also granted Hanuman a boon that he would not
die until he desired it.
Hanuman once appeared before Lord Rama adorned with jewels
given by Sita, expressing his unwavering devotion. Lord Rama, pleased with his
devotion, granted him any boon he desired. Hanuman requested to always remain
on earth, serving and remembering Lord Rama. Lord Rama agreed, assuring him
that he would live happily until the end of the Kalpa (cosmic cycle) and attain
union with him thereafter.
These instances suggest that Hanuman is not only immortal
but also eternal, subject to his own will and beyond aging or death. He was
granted the boon of achieving union with Lord Rama at the end of the cosmic
cycle, confirming his immortality. According to popular belief, he occasionally
appears before his devoted worshippers in various forms.
The Superiority of Devotion
In the Padma Purana, Lord Vishnu tells Narada that he dwells not in Vaikuntha (his celestial abode) or in the hearts of yogis but where his devotees sing his praises. He emphasizes that he finds true satisfaction in the worship offered by his devotees rather than in self-worship. Those who criticize his devotees despite hearing his stories are considered fools and are subject to his disdain.
When Lord Rama was crowned king, he presented an invaluable
necklace adorned with precious gems to his beloved Sita. Sita, in turn, removed
the necklace and repeatedly looked at her husband and the assembled monkeys.
Understanding her gesture of affection, Lord Rama asked her to give the
necklace to whomever she pleased. Sita, considering Hanuman's devotion, chose
to give the necklace to him. This act of devotion pleased Hanuman greatly, and
Sita blessed him, saying that wherever he may be, all his needs would be
fulfilled by her command. Overjoyed, Hanuman then set out to perform intense
meditation in the Himalayas.
Hanuman's Yogic Powers
Hanuman possessed the eight yogic powers known as Anima,
Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Ishita, and Vashita. These powers
were fully established in the behavior of Hanuman, the great devotee yogi.
These accounts highlight the extraordinary devotion of
Hanuman and his unique relationship with Lord Rama, emphasizing the power of
devotion over all other spiritual practices.
1. Anima and Laghima: These are described as
supernatural abilities or accomplishments possessed by Hanuman, allowing him to
take on extremely subtle forms, making him invisible to the residents of Lanka
while inspecting the city at night.
2. Mahima: Describes Hanuman's ability to expand his
body to enormous proportions, enabling him to cross the ocean during his
mission to Lanka.
3. Garima: Refers to Hanuman's ability to increase his
weight tremendously, demonstrated when Bhima fails to lift Hanuman's tail
during their encounter.
4. Prapti: Indicates Hanuman's ability to obtain desired
objects or goals effortlessly, such as his successful search for Sita in Lanka.
5. Prakamya: Highlights Hanuman's inner desire to meet
Sita, which is fulfilled spontaneously during his search mission.
6. Ishitva: Recognizes Hanuman's role as an effective
leader of Rama's army and his unwavering devotion to Rama.
7. Vashitva: Refers to Hanuman's mastery over his own
self, symbolizing his control over his desires and senses.
8. Balapurushartha: Represents Hanuman's immense
strength and his role in achieving significant objectives, such as bringing
medicinal herbs from the Himalayas to heal Rama and Lakshmana.
Hanuman Jayanti Special.
The significance of Jayanti is in remembering and celebrating the birth or incarnation of an institution or a great personality with reverence on that particular day... Similarly, the significance of Hanuman Jayanti is associated with the date connected to Hanuman Ji's life when he was born. Hanuman's mother was Punjikasthala, an Apsara from Swargaloka, who due to a curse from Sage Durvasa, had to take birth in the Vanara clan... Despite being a Vanara, she could change her form and live as a female... Punjikasthala's marriage to Vanaraja Kesari happened at a specific time, and according to astrological calculations, approximately 8,558,112 years ago, during the last phase of Treta Yuga, Hanuman Ji was born on the full moon day of Chaitra month, on a Tuesday... When Maruti, in his childhood, mistook the sun for fruit and tried to consume it, he encountered Rahu, and during the same time, to stop him, the king of gods, Devraj Indra, hurled a thunderbolt at him... After Vayudev intervened, all the gods had to grant Hanuman a boon and revive him... Since Hanuman's jaw was broken by Indra's thunderbolt, Maruti, with his broken jaw, was accepted by Devraj, and he was named Hanuman... Similarly, due to his body becoming as strong as a thunderbolt, he was also called Vajrangī...
But in Hanuman Jayanti, there are two special things: how did a Vanara attain the title of God, and was Hanuman the only child of his parents? And why do we hoist the red flag for Hanuman Ji?
Normally, Vanaras are very playful and innocent by nature. But even as a Vanara, the way Hanuman devoted himself to Lord Rama's worship, that devotion made him divine... It is said in the scriptures that it was because of his devoted servitude that Hanuman became an immortal deity, still present in the Kali Yuga... Hanuman Ji had five brothers besides himself.
Hanuman Ji was not the only son of his parents. Hanuman Ji had five other brothers, whose names were: Matiman, Shrutiman, Ketuman, Gatiman, and Dhritiman, as described in the Brahmānda Purana. Now let's consider how powerful Hanuman Ji's five brothers could be? Based on their names, we can estimate the strengths of Hanuman Ji's five brothers.
Lord Hanuman's brothers are
Matiman: As the name suggests, Mati means intellect, those whose minds have no equal. Those who can traverse all fourteen realms and the three worlds in a single moment through the power of their intellect were Matiman, Hanuman's brothers.
Shrutiman: Who can hear the sound of a needle falling thousands of miles away in a moment.
Gatiman: Whose speed is equal to that of the wind.
Ketuman: Who is very fast and master of a solid body.
Dhritiman: Who can see the whole world even with closed eyes.
Apart from Hanuman Ji, these five sons of Kesari-Anjana are guardians due to their unique powers, appointed as protectors in every corner of creation.
Why is the red flag associated with Hanuman Ji?
You might have noticed that Tulsidas Ji has written a line in Hanuman Chalisa - "Hātha bajra au dhvajā birājai", meaning those whose hands hold the thunderbolt and the flag. But where did this flag and thunderbolt come from? Yes, some people might have guessed right that once when Hanuman Ji went to Svargaloka (Indraloka), a demon defeated Indra and took away his throne. At that time, Hanuman Ji defeated that demon with his might and returned Indra his thunderbolt and victorious flag. The mention of Hanuman Ji holding the red flag and thunderbolt at that time is called "Hanuman Ji with thunderbolt and flag shining in his hands". Overall, these abilities underscore Hanuman's divine nature and his pivotal role in the epic Ramayana.
In the ancient Indian scriptures, Hanuman is described in the
following way:
Because Hanuman was born as a vanara, he was
naturally playful and mischievous. Even as a child, he received the gift of flight from his divine father, Vayu, the Wind God. One day, seeing the rising Sun,
he mistook it for a ripe fruit and flew towards it, intending to eat it. When
Rahu attempted to intervene, Hanuman fought him and struck him fiercely. Rahu
then complained to Indra, the king of the gods.
Indra hurled his thunderbolt, the Vajra, at
Hanuman, striking him on the chin and rendering him unconscious. Enraged by
what had happened to his son, Vayu withdrew the air from the world. Without
air, all living beings began to suffer and die.
Seeing the crisis, Brahma revived Hanuman, and
the gods bestowed numerous extraordinary boons upon the young vanara. These
were powers unlike anything ordinarily granted to a mortal being.
As a child, Hanuman began using his immense
powers to playfully trouble the sages and ascetics. As a result, the sages
placed a curse upon him: he would forget his divine powers and would not
remember them until someone reminded him of his true strength. Thus, Hanuman
lived like an ordinary vanara, unaware of the extraordinary powers that lay
dormant within him.
Years later, when Ravana abducted Mother Sita
and Sampati revealed that she was being held in Lanka, the vanaras faced the
enormous challenge of crossing the ocean. It was then that Jambavan reminded
Hanuman of his forgotten powers. The moment Hanuman remembered who he truly
was, his immense strength awakened. He assumed his gigantic form and leapt
across the ocean to reach Lanka.
The ancient Indian Puranic traditions describe
Hanuman as the very embodiment of immeasurable strength. He is said to possess
a body radiant like a mountain of gold, immense in size and capable of appearing
more formidable than even the mightiest demons. His presence is compared to a
blazing fire. He has curly hair, wears earrings in his ears and ornaments
around his feet, and is regarded as foremost among the wise.
Hanuman is the lord among the vanaras and a
treasure-house of divine virtues. His knowledge is said to be as vast as an
ocean. Though possessed of unimaginable strength and tremendous power, he is
gentle in his speech, humble in his conduct, and utterly devoted to Lord Rama.
Before his beloved Lord, he considers himself nothing more than a humble
servant.
Hanuman is also said to possess the Ashta Siddhis—the eight supernatural
powers—and the Nava Nidhis, the
nine divine treasures.
Such was his extraordinary strength that, in
battle, Hanuman once struck Ravana with such force that the mighty king of
Lanka was rendered unconscious.
Hanuman is also regarded as a Chiranjivi, an immortal being who
continues to live even in the present age of Kali Yuga. It is believed that
wherever the sacred story of Lord Rama is recited with devotion, Hanuman is
present there.
This
is how Hanuman is portrayed in the ancient Indian Vedic and Puranic traditions:
a being of limitless
strength, profound wisdom, extraordinary powers, absolute humility, and
unwavering devotion to Lord Rama.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Gurus Who
Taught Hanuman
Hanuman's first guru was his mother, Anjana. From
her, Hanuman learned humility, respect for others, and the courage to stand
against injustice. During his childhood, she would often tell him different stories,
teaching him valuable lessons through them.
Kesari was Hanuman's father. From him, Hanuman
learned the art of mace fighting and the skills of warfare.
Sage Matanga also taught Hanuman during his
childhood. However, seeing Hanuman's extraordinary intelligence and thirst for
knowledge, the sage sent him to Surya, the Sun God, to receive a higher
education.
Surya Dev taught Hanuman many different branches of
knowledge and wisdom. There was one particular discipline that required
marriage as part of its learning tradition. To make it possible for Hanuman to
receive that knowledge, Surya Dev arranged a symbolic verbal marriage between
Hanuman and his daughter, Suvarcala.
Hanuman, however, is traditionally regarded as a lifelong
celibate (Brahmachari), and this tradition does not consider him to have
entered into a conventional married life.
As his guru dakshina, Surya Dev asked Hanuman
to make a promise: he would always protect his son Sugriva from Bali.
Hanuman kept his promise faithfully. He remained
Sugriva's trusted minister, companion, and well-wisher, standing by him through
difficult times.
This is why Hanuman's life is not only a story of
extraordinary strength and divine powers, but also a story of discipline,
learning, loyalty, humility, and devotion.
How Did Hanuman Have a Son If He Never Married? The Story of Makardhwaja
Yes, this is one of the fascinating stories in Hindu mythology. Hanuman is traditionally regarded as a lifelong celibate, and yet he is said to have had a son named Makardhwaja.
According to the tradition described in this
account, Makardhwaja was born most unusually.
When Hanuman set Lanka on fire, the intense heat
caused sweat to fall from his body into the ocean. A makari, a female
crocodile-like creature, swallowed one of the drops. As a result, she became
pregnant and later gave birth to Makardhwaja.
Makardhwaja was therefore considered the son of
Hanuman, even though Hanuman had never married.
Makardhwaja grew up to become the guardian of the
gates of Patala. According to the story, Ahiravana had appointed him
as the gatekeeper of Patala. Makardhwaja was said to possess extraordinary
strength, comparable to that of his father, Hanuman.
Hanuman himself did not know that he had a son.
He discovered the truth only when he encountered
Makardhwaja during a remarkable battle.
When Ravana asked Ahiravana to abduct Lord Rama
and Lakshmana, Ahiravana secretly carried them away to Patala, intending to
sacrifice them.
Hanuman followed them to Patala to rescue Rama and
Lakshmana.
But when he tried to enter, Makardhwaja stopped him
at the gate.
Hanuman and Makardhwaja then fought fiercely.
Hanuman was surprised by the young warrior's extraordinary strength and
determination.
It was during this encounter that the truth about
Makardhwaja's birth came to light. The makari who had given birth to
Makardhwaja revealed the story of his father and explained how he had been born
from Hanuman's sweat.
Thus, Hanuman came to know that the powerful guardian
standing before him was none other than his own son.
The story of Hanuman and Makardhwaja is one of the most unusual and memorable episodes associated with Hanuman in later Hindu mythological traditions. It also highlights an important theme found throughout Hanuman's stories: even when faced with an unexpected challenge, he remains committed to his duty and to the service of Lord Rama.
Hanuman Was
Rational and Could Punish Injustice
Hanuman was not only known for his extraordinary
strength and devotion to Lord Rama. He was also a thoughtful and discerning
figure who valued good ideas, respected wisdom, and followed the guidance of
his gurus. Serving and honouring his teachers was an important part of his
dharma.
Hanuman generally did not kill his opponents
unnecessarily. During the war between Rama and Ravana, he often fought his
enemies with the aim of defeating and incapacitating them rather than killing
them.
However, there were occasions when Hanuman did take
a life, particularly when someone acted through deception or threatened an
important mission.
One such example was Kalanemi.
When Lakshmana's life was in danger, Hanuman
travelled to the Dronagiri mountain to obtain the life-saving Sanjeevani herb.
Rama was deeply distressed because his beloved brother's life was at risk.
Kalanemi attempted to deceive Hanuman and prevent
him from completing his mission. When Hanuman discovered the deception, he
killed Kalanemi.
Another well-known episode concerns Akshayakumara,
the son of Ravana.
When Hanuman entered Lanka, Ravana sent
Akshayakumara to confront him. The young warrior fought Hanuman bravely, but
Hanuman ultimately defeated him and killed him.
According to the traditional account, Hanuman seized
Akshayakumara by one of his legs and whirled him around with tremendous force,
ultimately killing him. The episode demonstrates the immense physical power
attributed to Hanuman in Hindu mythology.
Hanuman's presence in Lanka therefore inspired both
admiration and fear. He was not a warrior who fought merely for violence. His
strength was directed toward his duty, and when he encountered deception,
injustice or a threat to Rama's mission, he could respond with overwhelming
force.
This aspect of Hanuman's character gives another
dimension to his personality: he was compassionate and humble, but he was
never weak in the face of injustice.
________________________________________________
How Hanuman Broke the Pride of Garuda, Satyabhama and Sudarshan
One of the most beloved stories associated with Lord Hanuman tells how he
humbled the pride of Garuda, Satyabhama and Sudarshan through
his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama.
The story is traditionally set in Dvapara Yuga, during the
time of Lord Krishna.
Krishna Praises Hanuman
One day, Lord Krishna spoke lovingly about Hanuman in the presence of his
wives.
Satyabhama, who was known for her beauty and had developed some pride in her
appearance, became curious. She wanted to see whether Hanuman would really come
when Krishna summoned him.
There was another problem. Hanuman was a Chiranjivi, a
being blessed with a long, divinely ordained existence. Where could he be
found? How far away might he be?
At that moment, Garuda appeared.
Proud of his extraordinary speed and ability to fly, Garuda confidently said
that he would bring Hanuman to Krishna himself.
Garuda Meets Hanuman
Garuda travelled in search of Hanuman and eventually found him sitting on
the top of a high mountain.
Hanuman was peacefully chanting the sacred name of Lord Rama,
with his tail hanging down from the mountain.
Garuda approached him and interrupted his meditation.
With confidence, Garuda introduced himself and told Hanuman that Krishna was
calling him.
Hanuman opened his eyes but calmly refused.
He said that he did not know any Krishna and that he had no reason to go
anywhere. His heart belonged entirely to Lord Rama.
Garuda insisted.
Hanuman then wrapped his powerful tail around Garuda and restrained him.
Garuda somehow managed to escape and returned to Krishna.
Satyabhama's Pride
Garuda complained to Krishna about Hanuman.
Satyabhama, hearing what had happened, said that Hanuman should be punished
for refusing to recognise Krishna.
Krishna simply smiled.
He then asked Garuda to return to Hanuman and tell him something different.
This time, Garuda was to say:
"Lord Rama has called you."
Hanuman Hears the Name of Rama
Garuda returned to Hanuman and delivered the message.
The moment Hanuman heard the name Rama, everything changed.
His face lit up with joy.
Without hesitation, Hanuman immediately set out to meet his beloved Lord.
Garuda also took flight behind him.
Back in Krishna's palace, Satyabhama again asked Krishna whether Hanuman had
come this time.
Just then, Hanuman arrived.
His arrival was so powerful that the surroundings seemed to tremble beneath
the force of his landing.
Hanuman Sees Rama in Krishna
When Hanuman looked at Krishna, he saw Lord Rama in him.
He immediately bowed before Krishna with devotion.
Then he looked toward Satyabhama and asked Krishna:
"Is she your servant, Lord? I cannot see Mother Sita
here."
Satyabhama was deeply embarrassed.
At that moment, Rukmini entered.
When Hanuman looked at Rukmini, he saw the form of Mother Sita
in her.
He respectfully bowed before her.
Satyabhama's pride was completely humbled.
Hanuman had not insulted her for the sake of insulting her. His words
reflected the depth of his devotion—he saw Krishna through the form of Rama and
recognised Rukmini through the form of Sita.
Garuda Learns a Lesson
Soon afterwards, the exhausted Garuda arrived.
Krishna looked at him and asked why he had taken so long.
Garuda had always taken pride in being one of the fastest beings in
creation. Now he understood the lesson.
He realised that his pride had made him underestimate Hanuman and humbly
asked Krishna for forgiveness.
The Mystery of Sudarshan
Krishna then asked Hanuman whether Sudarshan, his divine
discus and beloved guardian, had stopped him from entering.
Hanuman opened his mouth.
To everyone's astonishment, the Sudarshan Chakra emerged
from his mouth.
Hanuman explained that Sudarshan had indeed tried to stop him.
He had tried to reason with the divine discus, but when it refused to move
aside, Hanuman had simply placed it inside his mouth and continued on his way.
The incident humbled Sudarshan as well.
Thus, according to this beloved devotional tradition, Hanuman humbled the
pride of Satyabhama, Garuda and Sudarshan Chakra—not through
arrogance, but through the supreme power of his devotion to Lord Rama.
The Lesson of the Story
The deeper message of this story is not about defeating someone.
It is about humility.
Satyabhama's pride in her beauty, Garuda's pride in his speed and
Sudarshan's confidence in his divine power all disappeared before Hanuman's
pure devotion.
Hanuman possessed immense strength, but he never took pride in it.
His only identity was that of a servant and devotee of Lord Rama.
That is why Hanuman's devotion is considered so powerful.
Where there is true devotion, pride has no place.
Hanuman Wrote a Ramayana Before Valmiki: The Mystery of Hanumad Ramayana
The Secret Story of Hanumad Ramayana
For centuries, we have generally known and believed that Maharishi
Valmiki was the original author of the Ramayana, followed much later
by the great saint-poet Tulsidas, who composed the Ramcharitmanas.
But there is another fascinating tradition associated with Lord Hanuman.
According to this popular devotional story, Hanuman himself wrote a Ramayana
even before Valmiki's Ramayana. It is known as the Hanumad Ramayana.
But why would Hanuman, after writing his own Ramayana, ultimately have to
consign it to the sea?
Let us explore this beautiful story.
Hanuman Writes the Story of Lord Rama
After Ravana was defeated by Lord Rama in Lanka, Rama returned to Ayodhya
along with Lakshmana and Goddess Sita.
Hanuman, however, went to the Himalayas, where he devoted himself to the
worship of Lord Shiva.
Yet even while engaged in his spiritual practices, Hanuman could not stop remembering
Lord Rama and the many joyful and painful events associated with his beloved
Lord.
Eventually, Hanuman could no longer contain his emotions.
He began writing the story of Lord Rama on large stone slabs, using nothing
but his fingernails.
Day after day, he continued writing.
As time passed, a great collection of stone slabs covered with the story of
Rama accumulated around him.
Valmiki Was Also Writing the Ramayana
At the same time, somewhere else, Maharishi Valmiki was
also composing his Ramayana.
Neither Hanuman nor Valmiki knew that the other was writing the story of
Lord Rama.
While composing his Ramayana, Valmiki often thought of Hanuman.
He knew that Hanuman, the greatest devotee of Rama, had witnessed and
understood so much of Rama's life. Therefore, after completing his own
Ramayana, Valmiki decided that he would meet Hanuman.
He knew that Hanuman would most likely be found in the Himalayas.
Hanuman Completes His Ramayana
Eventually, Hanuman completed his Ramayana.
He was extremely happy.
His account of Rama's life was filled with deep devotion and love for his
Lord.
Hanuman wanted to offer his Ramayana to Lord Rama as a gift.
Around the same time, Valmiki also completed his Ramayana and set out to
find Hanuman.
When Valmiki reached the Himalayas, Hanuman had gone to bathe.
Valmiki saw the large stone slabs lying there.
Curious, he began reading the story of Rama written upon them.
What he saw left him astonished.
The Ramayana written by Hanuman was filled with such profound devotion and
emotion that Valmiki felt it was even more beautiful and moving than his own
work.
Valmiki understood that only a devotee who had received the immeasurable
grace of Lord Rama could have written something like this.
And, in his eyes, there was no greater devotee of Rama than Hanuman.
Valmiki Feels Sad
Valmiki looked at his own Ramayana and then at Hanuman's Ramayana.
He became saddened.
He began to leave the place.
Just then, he heard a voice behind him.
When Valmiki turned around, he saw Hanuman standing there.
Hanuman noticed the Ramayana written by Valmiki.
With a smile, he said that he was delighted to learn that Valmiki had also
written the story of his beloved Lord Rama.
But Valmiki replied sadly that there was little reason for him to be happy.
He feared that the world would know and read only Hanuman's Ramayana, while
his own work would be forgotten.
Hanuman's Great Sacrifice
Hearing this, Hanuman picked up Valmiki's Ramayana and placed it upon one
shoulder.
Then he gathered the stone slabs on which he had written his own Ramayana
and placed them upon his other shoulder.
Valmiki watched in amazement.
He could not understand what Hanuman intended to do.
Out of curiosity, he followed Hanuman.
Hanuman walked towards the sea.
When he reached the shore, he remembered Lord Rama and spoke from his heart:
"My Lord, you never allow your devotee to be disappointed. How,
then, could I disappoint a devotee who has devoted so much time to writing the
story of your life?"
Hanuman then said that he would dedicate the stone slabs containing his own
Ramayana to Lord Rama.
He lifted the stones and cast them into the sea.
Valmiki stood behind him, watching the extraordinary act in astonishment.
Hanuman Gives Valmiki His Ramayana
Hanuman then returned to Valmiki and handed his Ramayana back to him.
He told him that he had solved his problem.
Seeing Hanuman's love, humility and respect, Valmiki bowed before him.
Valmiki said:
"O Hanuman, beloved devotee of Rama, you have sacrificed your
own creation to preserve my honour. But truth can never truly be hidden, nor
can it be drowned."
The story says that Hanuman's act was not one of defeat.
It was an act of love, humility and sacrifice.
For Hanuman, preserving the honour of another devotee was more important
than receiving recognition for his own creation.
The Mysterious Stone of Hanumad Ramayana
According to the story, centuries passed after this extraordinary event.
Then, one day, a stone slab from Hanuman's Ramayana was found floating in
the sea.
The great poet Kalidasa happened to see it.
It is said that the way Hanuman had written the Ramayana on the stone with
his fingernails was beyond the ability of ordinary people to read.
However, Kalidasa, blessed with extraordinary knowledge, was able to
understand the writing.
When he looked at the stone, he is said to have perceived the presence of
Hanuman in it.
Kalidasa bowed before the sacred stone and declared that he would introduce
the world to the Hanumad Ramayana written by Hanuman.
And so, according to this beloved devotional tradition, Hanuman's Ramayana
may have disappeared beneath the waves, but its story continued to live in the
memory and faith of devotees.
_______________________________________________________
Hanuman's Test of Intelligence: The Story of How He Won a Place at Rama's Feet
“Jai Hanuman Gyan Gun Sagar,
Jai Kapis Tihun Lok Ujagar.”
The opening lines of the Hanuman Chalisa describe Hanuman as an ocean of
wisdom and virtue. Along with his immense strength, Hanuman is revered for his
intelligence, wisdom and extraordinary presence of mind.
It is through this wisdom, as well as his unwavering devotion, that Hanuman
earned a unique place in the heart of Lord Rama.
Today, we explore a lesser-known story about Hanuman's intelligence and the
clever way in which he secured a place at Rama's feet forever.
Hanuman Refuses to Leave Ayodhya
The story takes place after Lord Rama's coronation in Ayodhya.
After Rama returned to Ayodhya and was crowned king, those who had
accompanied him eventually returned to their own kingdoms and homes. Some
became kings or princes, while others returned to their hermitages.
But Hanuman did not leave Ayodhya.
Rama noticed that Hanuman continued to remain by his side and showed no
intention of returning anywhere.
Rama himself found it difficult to ask Hanuman to leave.
So one night, he spoke to Mother Sita.
Rama told her that Hanuman had performed countless services for him and had
done so much for him. Perhaps Hanuman should now be given a kingdom, position
or important responsibility so that he could respectfully leave Ayodhya and
begin a new chapter of his life.
Rama asked Sita to speak to Hanuman the following day.
Sita immediately replied that she did not want to do this.
She said that she would never ask Hanuman to leave Ayodhya.
Then, in a playful yet deeply meaningful remark, Sita told Rama:
“Arya, perhaps sending one's sons away to the forest without any
fault is a tradition in your dynasty, but it is not a tradition in mine.
Therefore, I will never ask Hanuman to leave.”
Rama understood the gentle taunt and went to sleep.
Rama Asks Bharata
The following morning, Rama met Bharata.
Rama told him about his concern and asked him to find a suitable position
for Hanuman and respectfully send him away from Ayodhya.
Bharata folded his hands and refused.
He reminded Rama of the fourteen years of separation he had endured.
Bharata explained that during those years, he had prepared himself for the
possibility that Rama might never return.
It was Hanuman who had brought him hope by assuring him that Rama would
return.
Bharata compared Hanuman's message to Sanjeevani, saying
that Hanuman had brought life back to someone who had been spiritually broken
by grief.
How, then, could he ever ask Hanuman to leave?
Bharata said that he had already experienced the pain of separation from his
brother for fourteen years.
He could not bear the thought of living through separation from Hanuman as
well.
Lakshmana Also Refuses
Rama then turned to Lakshmana.
Lakshmana said that after Rama and Sita, Hanuman was among the closest
people to him.
He reminded Rama of the time when he had fallen unconscious during the war
and his life had been in danger.
Hanuman had travelled to the Himalayas and brought the life-saving medicinal
herbs that ultimately saved him.
Lakshmana said that if Hanuman had not been there, he might not have
survived.
Therefore, he could never ask Hanuman—the brother-like companion and
life-giver—to leave Ayodhya.
Shatrughna's Answer
Rama then asked Shatrughna.
Shatrughna also declined.
He explained that Hanuman was no longer merely a guest or an outsider.
He had become a member of their family.
And, he asked, how could anyone ask a member of their own family to leave
the house?
Rama realised that none of his brothers would ever agree to send Hanuman
away.
Rama's Final Plan
Finally, Rama thought of another way.
He organised a royal assembly in Hanuman's honour.
In front of the entire court, Rama praised Hanuman for everything he had
done.
Rama said that he had rewarded everyone who had helped him in some way.
But Hanuman had never asked for anything.
Rama admitted that he had struggled to decide what gift could possibly be
appropriate for Hanuman.
He then told Hanuman:
“The service you have rendered to me is even greater than that of
Sugriva. Therefore, today you may ask me for any one position or honour you
desire.”
Hanuman listened carefully.
Then came the moment that revealed his extraordinary intelligence.
Hanuman Asks for Two Positions
Hanuman respectfully replied:
“Prabhu, you have just said that I have done twice as much for you
as Sugriva. If so, should I not receive two positions rather than one?”
Everyone in the royal assembly was stunned.
People began wondering whether Hanuman had suddenly become greedy.
Rama, however, smiled and agreed.
He said:
“Very well. Take two positions.”
The moment Rama said this, Hanuman moved forward.
He took hold of both of Rama's feet.
Then he said:
“Then, Prabhu, from this day onward, these two feet are my two
positions. No one can remove me from them—not even you, because you have given
them to me yourself.”
The entire assembly fell silent.
Everyone understood Hanuman's cleverness.
He had not asked for a kingdom.
He had not asked for wealth.
He had not asked for power.
He had found a way to ask for something far greater:
A permanent place at the feet of Lord Rama.
Rama embraced Hanuman and praised his wisdom, intelligence and strength.
According to this beloved devotional story, this is how Hanuman secured his
eternal place at the feet of Lord Rama.
The Deeper Meaning of Hanuman's Intelligence
The beauty of this story lies not simply in Hanuman's clever answer.
It reveals something deeper about his character.
Hanuman possessed immense physical strength, but he never allowed that
strength to become arrogance.
He possessed extraordinary intelligence, but he used it with humility.
And above everything else, he possessed complete devotion.
When Rama offered him a position, Hanuman understood that no kingdom or
worldly honour could compare with serving Rama directly.
So he chose the greatest position of all:
The position of a servant at his Lord's feet.
This is why Hanuman is remembered not only as Mahaveer and Bajrangbali,
but also as an embodiment of wisdom, humility and devotion.
Source credit: Shree Shreedharacharya Maharaj, Jhalaria Math, Indian
ancient scriptures like Shiv Puran, Brahmand Puran, Ling Puran, Skanda Puran, Padma Puran, etc
Blog writer: Mythology Researcher & Writer Shrikant Vishwakarma
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6818432/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk
