The Corporate Hanuman

( Photo courtesy: Ramcharit Manas -Manoj Publications) In the previous blog, we discussed how Hanuman's influence was demonstrated through his role as an advisor to Sugreev. In this blog, we will focus on Hanuman's devotion to Shri Ram. When Shri Ram and Laxman first encounter Hanuman in the guise of a Sanyasi, they are initially suspicious of his intentions.   However, Hanuman's probing questions and insightful observations eventually convince Shri Ram of his sincerity. When Hanuman's disguise fades away and he reveals himself as a monkey, he falls at Shri Ram's feet in tears of devotion. In Kishkindha Kand of Ramcharit Manas, Goswami Tulsidas has narrated this scene very nicely (from chaupai 4 onwards) and the conversation between Ram and Hanuman ji is worth understanding: Hanuman asks: को तुम्ह स्यामल गौर सरीरा   ⁠ । छत्री रूप फिरहु बन बीरा   ⁠ । ⁠ । कठिन भूमि कोमल पद गामी   ⁠ । कवन हेतु बिचरहु बन स्वामी   ⁠ । ⁠ । "Ko tumha syaamal gaur sareera...

  Influence is derived from trustworthy actions performed with confidence. This concept is exemplified in the character of Lord Hanuman in the Hindu epic Ramayan. In this blog, we will explore how Hanuman's influence is demonstrated through his different roles as A Trusted Minister, A Competent Advisor and A Loyal Servant . We will specifically focus on the chapter "Kishkindha Kand" in Ramcharit Manas, where Hanuman first appears in the epic. In this chapter, we learn that Sugreev, who has been expelled from the capital of Kishkindha by his brother Vali, is living in exile at Rishyamook Parvat. Shri Ram and Laxman visit Shabari's ashram and learn that Sugreev can help them in their search for Mata Sita. When Sugreev sees the two heroes approaching, he becomes frightened and calls upon his ministers for help. However, it is only Hanuman who can provide the reassurance and guidance that Sugreev needs. Through his observations and insights, Hanuman convinces Sugree...