The Corporate Hanuman

Valmiki Ramayan highlights Sugreev and Hanuman Ji's lovely friendship, particularly in Kishkindha Kand. Their friendship depicts a well-meaning friendship in which they were always there for each other, no matter what. The strength of the ring that Shri Ram had given Hanuman Ji, as well as reciting the holy name of Ram, contributed to Hanuman Ji's ability to carry out the enormous job assigned to him. Ram chose him for this role, however, due of his positive attitude , desire to serve , and Sugreev's recommendation . Sugreev became Ram's ally as a result of Hanuman Ji's proposal to Ram. Later, Sugreev repaid Hanuman Ji's debt by recommending him to Ram for the Sita search. This gesture of generosity and selflessness is a true indicator of a perfect relationship between well-wishers, emphasizing the value of friendship in our lives. Valmiki Ramayan emphasizes that true friendship entails helping one another in both good and terrible times. This is emphasized ...

( 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...