HANUMAN
The Immortal Symbol of Strength, Devotion, and Sacrifice
Anjaneya, also reverently known as Sundarudu, is one of the most divine and inspiring figures in the Hindu epic Ramayana. The name Sundarudu (the Beautiful One) is not only a reflection of his physical beauty but also his inner strength, wisdom, and unshakable devotion to Lord Rama. It is no coincidence that Sundarakanda, the most powerful and spiritually uplifting section of the Ramayana, is named after him.
The Origin of the Name “Hanuman”
The name “Hanuman” comes from “Hanu” (cheek) and “man” (disfigured or broken), signifying the divine event that marked his childhood. Anjaneya, the son of Anjana Devi and born by the blessings of Lord Shiva and Vayudeva (the wind god), displayed immense power and divinity even as a child.
One early morning, young Anjaneya mistook the glowing sun for a ripe fruit. Filled with childlike joy and mischief, he soared into the sky with astonishing speed and swallowed the sun in one gulp. As the world plunged into darkness, panic gripped all beings. The gods, alarmed at the cosmic imbalance, rushed to Lord Indra for help.
In haste and fury, Devendra struck the divine child with his thunderbolt – Vajrayudham. Though the weapon was powerful, Anjaneya, being a child of Shiva and the wind god, could not be killed. However, the blow fractured his cheeks, and he fell unconscious. This is how he came to be called Hanuman – the one with disfigured cheeks.
The Wrath of Vayudeva and Hanuman’s Immortality
Witnessing this brutal attack on his son, Vayudeva withdrew air from the universe and secluded himself in a cave. The absence of air led to chaos – people, animals, and even gods began to suffer and perish due to lack of oxygen.
Realizing the gravity of his mistake, Indra sought forgiveness from Vayudeva. To pacify the wind god and to honor the incredible divinity of Hanuman, the Trimurthis – Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva – blessed Hanuman with immortality, unparalleled strength, and protection from all harm.
Lord Shiva declared Hanuman as “Chiranjeevi” – the one who will live eternally and remain on earth as a symbol of devotion, strength, wisdom, and protection.
More Than Just a Devotee
Though Hanuman is widely known for his physical strength, it is his devotion to Lord Rama, his humility despite immense power, and his service to righteousness (Dharma) that truly define his greatness.
He was a master of the Vedas, a diplomat, a fearless warrior, and an unmatched messenger. In Sundarakanda, Hanuman leaps across oceans, burns down Lanka, and still bows with utmost humility before Sita Devi and Lord Rama.
Hanuman’s selflessness was such that he never used his powers for himself but always for the good of others. His presence continues to protect the devout even today. Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa is believed to remove obstacles, fears, and negative energies.
The Eternal Messenger of Bhakti
Hanuman is not just a mythological figure—he is an embodiment of Bhakti (devotion) and Seva (selfless service). Whether it is lifting mountains, burning cities for justice, or simply sitting quietly chanting Rama’s name, Hanuman remains the eternal protector of Dharma.
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