Lord Hanuman Doing Finger Snapping Service

After the coronation was over, Hanumanji stayed in Ayodhya and showed so much of eagerness and engaged fully in doing all the services to Rama. There was no chance left for others to do any type of service to their beloved Lord Rama.

Lakshman, Bharata and Shatrugna felt that they were not able to serve at all. They asked Mother Sita to do something for this. Sita Devi said that she is also sailing in the same boat because she was also not able to serve her Prabhu.

They decided to make a service schedule and divide all the services among themselves and leave out Hanumanji. So all the four broke their heads and used all their intelligence and wrote all the services right from the morning till Lord Rama goes for rest.

They gave the service schedule to Sita Devi to get the approval from Lord Rama. She took the schedule to Rama. When Rama went through the schedule, he realized that no service was allowed to Hanumanji. He understood the feelings of His brothers and Sita Devi and the ploy behind leaving out Hanumanji. He also could visualize what is going to happen but He simply smiled and asked Sita what should He do. Sita Devi asked Lord Rama to just fix his signature and seal on the list so that it becomes an official order. Lord Rama did so and the list was displayed on the notice board.

Next day, Hanumanji innocently went to Lord Rama’s room to do service, to press Rama’s leg. Immediately Lakshman told Hanumanji that it is not his service and it is allotted to Shatrugna. Lakshman said that they have made a service schedule which is approved by Rama, so everything should go accordingly. Then Hanumanji saw the schedule. He found that no service was allotted to him. He started feeling and crying for being left out. After some time he consoled himself and asked Lakshman if he could do any service which is not mentioned in the list.

Lakshman also agreed to that because he was hundred percent confident that he has not left any service. After thinking for a while, Hanumanji said that he will do the yawning service. When the Lord yawns, he will snap his fingers to protect him from all the evil effects.

They did’nt know the seriousness of this service when they agreed. No body can predict when yawning comes so Hanumanji was always required to stay with Rama. He was always keeping his fingers ready to snap. He took his prasadam with his left hand and kept his right hand ready to snap when Rama yawns. That much he was determined in his service. Sita, Lakshman, Bharata and Shatrugna were completely bewildered at this turn of the situation.

Rama smiled inside and thought that all of their intelligence put together cannot equal Hanumanji’s intelligence. Then night came. Rama went to take rest in the bedroom. Hanumanji also followed Him. Sita Devi stopped him, reminding Hanumanji about her domain. But Hanumanji was so determined in his service that he said this yawning service is most required at night time and he has to be with the Lord and it is very much essential.

Seeing this discussion, Lord Rama asked Hanumanji to go and take rest. Having received the order, Hanumanji had no other option but to leave Lord Rama and go.

Yet he thought how he can continue his service without any break. So he went to the bedroom balcony and started snapping his fingers and chanting Rama’s name. Rama started yawning repeatedly. Soon Lord Rama’s mouth locked wide open in a monster yawn. He collapsed into a chair, pale with exhaustion. Then everybody came and all were perplexed. Sage Vasishta came, looked around and understood the situation and found that Hanumanji is missing in the arena.

They all searched and somehow located Hanumanji from the balcony and bought him. Hanumanji saw the condition of his Lord, and immediately stopped snapping his fingers and fell at the feet of Rama. Rama’s mouth closed only at that instant. Rama wanted to accept the service of his pure devotee. So it was not Hanuman’s snap for Rama’s yawn. It was Rama’s yawn for Hanuman’s snap. We have to see how the Lord reciprocates with His pure devotee. Then all the brothers and Sita Devi realized the determination of Hanumanji for loving service to his Lord and decided that they will not interfere in that.

The Stones That Sank At the Ram Setu

Ramachandra Bhagavan wanted to cross over from South India to Lanka in order to defeat Ravana, and He had to transport the monkey army also.

He thought that, as it is He can’t do anything.

And He cannot take all the monkeys across of ocean in between India and Lanka.

He thought that we must have a bridge so that everyone can cross.

So who can do it?

He called Hanuman and told him, “We want a bridge tomorrow ready.”

Hanuman said “Alright Bhagavan.”

Hanuman knew that the Lord does not only order the living entities. But when He orders, He gives the strength also so that we can fulfill His desire. So he was sure.

He started to bring big mountains and stones from all over India and try to deposit them near the coast of the ocean. On each stone he was writing ‘Ram’ and he was throwing them in the ocean. And the stones were floating.

Lord Ramachandra was standing by the side. He was surprised that the stones were floating when they were thrown in the ocean.

Then Lord Ram wanted to try it Himself.

He thought, “If these stones are floating just by writing My name on it, then when I throw also they must float.”

So He picked up a big stone and threw it in to the ocean. It sank in the ocean. He thought that something must be wrong.

Again He picked up another stone and threw and again it went down.

Hanuman was watching Ram. He asked, ”What are you doing Bhagavan?”

Ram didn’t want to tell anything because He was not successful.

Hanuman said, “I know Bhagavan what you are doing. You must know these things better than me. I am bringing the stones and I am writing Your name on it. So Your association is there with the stone. Even the stone if it has the association of Krishna or Ram, it will definitely float. But when You throw the stone, You are rejecting the stone. So once You reject, how can they float?”

When Hanuman Went After Sun God

Hanuman was the son of Vayu, the god of the wind, and Anjana, a celestial nymph. You’re probably wondering how the son of the wind god and a nymph turned out to be a monkey. The answer is that Anjana once angered a sage who cursed her to be born as a monkey. When the nymph begged for pardon, the sage calmed down and said that she would regain her original form after she bore a son who would win great renown.

Even as a child, Hanuman had great powers. One morning, he saw the sun rising and thought it was a great yellow ball. He decided to get hold of it so that he could play with it. Indra, the king of gods, saw Hanuman leap into the sky and wanted to stop him. And how did he do that? He threw his weapon, the Vajra (thunderbolt) at the child. Hanuman fell to earth, wounded.

Life without air

Hanuman’s enraged father decided to go on a strike until the one who hurt his child was punished. Imagine if there is no wind on earth! How would it be? No gentle cooling breeze when the sun blazes down. No power to move the rain-bearing clouds. Why, after a point, both humans and animals couldn’t breathe. Vayu’s strike made life on earth difficult.

The gods knew they had to placate Vayu. So, they offered the baby a multitude of boons. Brahma said that no weapon would ever hurt Hanuman and that he would be able to change his form at will and travel wherever he chose. Indra’s boon was that the Vajra would no longer hurt the child and that his body would be stronger than the weapon. Varuna, the god of the ocean, offered him protection from water.

Agni, the god of fire, blessed him with immunity to fire. Surya, the sun god, gave him the power to change the size of his body. Yama blessed him with good health and immortality. Vishwakarma, the divine architect, offered a boon that Hanuman would be safe from all objects of his creation.

With all these boons, Hanuman became a great warrior who played a crucial role in the Ramayan. But that story is for another time.

Lord Hanuman and Narada Muni's Vina

Once Hanuman and his mother Ketari heard a sound of misical instrument Vina and beautiful singing of Krishnas holy name.

Ketari said, “Who is this singing? It must be Narada Muni coming!”

Hanuman asked, “Who is this person?”

Ketari replied, “He is a very great soul. He doesn’t need any introduction. You just go to him and you will find out the greatness of this man.”

Immediately Hanuman jumped up and Narada was just on his way past their place, going to see some rishi, so Hanuman jumped in his way and paid pranams. “Narada Muni, I heard that you are a very great person, so you must bless me. Without blessing me, you are not allowed to go!”

Narada said, “What blessing do you want?”

Hanuman said, “Already the demigods have given me so many blessings. I cannot think of anything else, so you think of a blessing, and you give it to me.”

Narada thought, “What blessing does Hanuman not have?”

And so he said, “You will become expert in music.” That was the only benediction left to give.

So Hanuman got that benediction, and Narada Muni said, “So I have given you the benediction, and now I am going.”

Hanuman said, “One minute, one minute.” “What do you want?”

Narada asked. “How will I know that I am the most expert in music?” Hanuman inquired. “My father told me that you are the most expert in music, so you must do me a favour today. Give me the benediction that I will be more expert than you!”

So Narada said, “All right, I will sit somewhere and listen to you.”

“Shall I start singing?” Hanuman asked.

“Yes.” Narada Muni put his vina on a rock, and he sat down on the ground.

So Hanuman selected that tune which would melt the rock, and he began to sing it. The rock melted, and the vina was in the liquid. He was singing and singing, and the vina was floating in the liquid rock.

Narada was closing his eyes and enjoying in exstasy, and he said, “All right Hanuman, you are the best musician. You can stop singing now.”

Hanuman said, “You open your eyes and tell me if I should I stop singing.”

Narada said, “How do you mean?”

Hanuman replied, “You open your eyes.”

So Narada opened his eyes and looked around. He didn’t notice the vina floating in the stone water. “Yes, you can stop singing.”

So then Hanuman stopped singing, and the liquid stone became rock, and the vina got stuck.

Narada said, “I am going,” and he took his vina, but it wouldn’t move. “What did you do, Hanuman?”

Hanuman said, “I only sung a song. You told me to sing a song, and you also gave me the ability. Now you are complaining. I have been a good boy for a whole week.”

Narada said, “One week of doing nothing means that before that week you did too much.” And then Hanuman told him all about what he had done, swallowing the sun etc, and Narada became very pleased.

Then he said, “Now whatever it was, you please sing the tune again, so I can get my vina.”

Hanuman said, “Well, I don’t know….”

Narada Muni said, “Please do it!”

“No I won’t,” Hanuman said, and he jumped up and ran inside the palace. So Narada Muni was running after Hanuman who was just running from one room to another. And you know monkeys are fast it is very difficult to catch them.

Finally Narada Muni become very tired so he called out, “Hey Hanuman, please come and give me my vina back ! I have to go! I have service to do!”

Just then Ketari came out, and when she saw Narada Muni she touched his feet and spoke – “What is my son doing, he is giving you some trouble?”

Narada said, “Oh no, no trouble, just that he got my vina stuck in the rock.” Ketari said, “Oh no, he has started his mischief again!

Hanuman, get Narada’s vina out of the rock!” said Ketari.

And then Hanuman said, “I wanted Narada Muni’s feet to touch every room in this palace, that is why I was doing this. Now he has touched all the rooms and he has made our home holy place of pilgrimage. The dust from his lotus feet is so rare that what is the use of just having it in one part of our kingdom? We should have it all over. Now I can give him back his vina. ”

Narada said, “You are already blessed, because you are Lord Rama’s eternal servant.” So Hanuman went and sung for Narada, who quickly took his vina and left.

How Lord Hanuman Met Lord Rama First Time

Valmiki’s fifth book of Ramayana, Sundara Kanda, has detailed accounts of Hanuman’s meeting with Rama and Lakshmana, and their adventures after it. Rama and Lakshmana come across Hanuman and Sugriva, while they were wandering in the forests of Kishkindha searching for Sita, just after she had been abducted by Ravana. Sugriva, at first was suspicious about the identities of Rama and Lakshmana, and thinking them to be a spy, sent by his brother Vali. Hanuman, however was confident that those two cannot be Vali’s spies, as they looked like dignified warriors However, just to be double sure, Sugriva sent Hanuman in the guise of a Brahmin to inquire about their actual identities and the purpose of their visit. Rama, upon meeting with Hanuman was greatly impressed with his exemplary virtues of good manners, and his perfectly polished tone of speaking. Rama, in him saw the qualities of a trustworthy friend, whom he can depend on, especially at that hour of danger, when Sita was missing. When Rama finally introduces himself to Hanuman, Hanuman removes his disguise, and falls to the feet of Rama, seeking his blessings. This was beginning of an epic friendship between Rama and his greatest devotee. Even today, people quote their relationship as examples of the best ever friendship that was ever there in the history of Hindu mythology. Hanuman is very popularly depicted as opening his chest containing the picture of Rama and Sita. Hanuman, therefore stands to be the greatest devotee to be ever born on the Earth.

Hanuman then introduces Rama to Sugriva, and explains to him the scenario with his brother, Vali. Rama helps Sugriva regain his kingdom from Vali, by killing Vali. In return Sugriva promises to provide Rama with an army of vanars, to assist Rama and Hanuman in finding Sita. He sent the vanars, in all four directions of the Earth to search for Sita. The vanars bring the news that Sita is in Lanka.

Lord Hanuman's Effort in finding Devi Sita at Lanka

Hanuman reached Lanka, by making a giant leap across the ocean from the Indian land. Hanuman was really impressed with Lanka’s beauty and prosperity when he looked at it from the top. Hanuman finds Sita in captivity in the Ashoka groves. Hanuman pleads her to come back with him, to Rama, and assures her that he has been looking for her with all his efforts combined. However, Sita refused to go with Hanuman, as it would be an insult to Rama himself. She told Hanuman to give Rama the message that she would return only with Rama. Hanuman also gave Sita a ring given to her by Rama. After his meeting with Sita, all hell breaks loose in Lanka, and Hanuman began to create absolute havoc. He single handedly destroyed the palaces and properties of Lanka, and also kills many rakshasas, including Jambumali and Aksha Kumar. Hanuman also fakes getting caught to Ravana’s son, Indrajit, so as to meet with the evil himself, Ravana. When he met Ravana, he gave him an ultimatum to leave Sita, and he also undermined his strength by saying that he would forgive him, if he returns Sita honorably. This greatly enraged Ravana, and orders the burning of Hanuman’s tail. Hanuman, after letting it burn for a while, jumps from one roof to another, burning large parts of Lanka, while also escaping from his captors, after which he returned too Rama, by again leaping over the ocean back to India.

Lord Hanuman Lifting Dronagiri to bring Sanjivani

Lakshmana had been seriously injured during his battle against Ravana’s son, Indrajit. Rama sent Hanuman to fetch a potent life restoring herb, Sanjivani, from the Dronagiri Mountains in the Himalayas, using which Lakshmana’s health could be restored. Ravana, on hearing this, plans for Lakshmana’s death, as that would get Rama too grief-stricken to be able to fight in a war. He dispatches the witch Kalanemi to disrupt Hanuman’s attempts of finding the herb on time. Kalanemi, in disguise, as a sage, initially succeeds in fooling Hanuman. However, Hanuman finds out the disguise with the help of an apsara, whom he released from her accursed state of a crocodile, and he then kills Kalanemi. Ravana, still doesn’t gives up on his attempts, and calls upon Surya to rise earlier than its schedule, Ravana knew that Lakshmana would succumb to his wounds if not treated till daybreak. Hanuman, on realizing this danger, transforms himself into many times his normal size, to prevent the Sun God to appear. And then as he continued his search for the precious herb, he realized that he was not being able to recognize the specific herb that was required to cure Lakshmana. So, as a solution to his problem he lifts the entire mountain, owing to his infinite strength, and places the mountain in the battlefield of Lanka, where Sushena, the physician identifies the herb and uses it successfully to redeem Lakshmana back to life. Rama was ever grateful to Hanuman, and warmly embraced Hanuman to save his dear brother. Hanuman, then released Surya from his powerful grip, and asked for his forgiveness, as Surya was his teacher.

Lord Hanuman Realizing His Potential

Hanuman was very powerful and could do anything that he wishes. In the forest, as a young boy, he will jump from trees to trees and hurl elephants at great speeds across. This disturbed the Rishis who were meditating there and cursed him that “you will forget your powers until someone reminds you”.

Sugriva sent four armies in four directions in search of Sita. The team led by Angada which included among others hanuman and Jambavan went to the southern side and finally reached the sea-shore. They were all sad about not finding Sita and did not want to go back to Sugriva with news of their failure. They thought that it was better to fast and die on the sea-shore. From a neighbouring hill, Sampati, the vulture King, saw this crowd of Vanaras, resigning themselves to fate. Having lost his wings and being unable to move, Sampati had been famishing for a long time. The Vanaras got up, went to Sampati and gently led him down from the hill. Sampati was old and weak, but his eyes had not lost their keenness. He could see things which were very far off. Looking in the South across the sea, he could see Sita captive in Lanka. He described in detail how Sita sat surrounded by rakshasas in a garden in Lanka. The Vanaras were wild with joy. They jumped about saying, “Now we know all about Sita. There is no need for us to die; Rama’s purpose will be achieved.”

They decided that they had to cross the sea; find Sita and only then go back to Sugriva to report what they had seen. They went to the edge of the water and discussed matters. “How can we cross the sea, enter Lanka, see Sita and return?” Anxiety and fear overwhelmed them. Angada said: “No matter how hard the task, one should never lose courage. Courage is the key to success. To lose heart is to lose everything.” Then he asked each one of his followers to state truly the maximum length that he could jump. One by one, they all spoke estimating the length they could jump, but all fell short of the distance to Lanka. Finally, the aged Jambavan cast an admiring look at Hanuman, who had sat apart, listening to the talk, but saying nothing. “I feel that the son of Vayu, sitting there in silence is the one best fitted by strength and skill to do this deed,” said the old Vanara and walked up to Hanuman and brought him to their midst. Jambavan addressed Hanuman thus: “Born of Anjana and the spirit of the Wind-God, you are equal to him in splendor, intelligence and power. But, for all your strength, you are virtuous and modest. You alone can help us to fulfil Rama’s purpose. Crossing the sea is no hard task to you. Increase your stature. You are the equal of Garuda.

Hearing Jambavan reminding him of his strength, Hanuman’s dormant courage was roused. At once his form began to swell like the sea in high tide. Even as the Vanaras were watching him, the son of Vayu grew in size. The radiance of his body filled Angada and his companions with wonder and joy. Reminded of his might by Jambavan, Hanuman was now determined to fulfil Rama’s purpose. And with fervour he uttered his faith: “May your words come true. Flying through the sky and alighting in Lanka, I shall see Janaki, I have no doubt. I shall return and bring you good news.

This is called “Anjaneya Prabhava”, not realising the full potential in each one of us. All of us have the innate ability to achieve whatever we want to in our life. However we resign ourselves thinking that it is beyond our ability until we see a guide or guru like Jambavan, who reminds us of our powers. If you are a professional, you must look for a mentor who has the knowledge, power and vision to guide you to achieve greater success and positions in your professional life. Infinite is the potential of the human being. We have to invoke that potential to realize the same.

Story of Panchmukhi Hanuman

In another incident during the war, Rama and Lakshmana are captured by the rakshasa Mahiravana brother of Ravana, who held them captive in their palace in Patala, the netherworld. Mahiravana keeps them as offerings to his deity. Searching for them, Hanuman reaches Patala. Upon entering Patala, Hanuman discovers that to kill Mahiravana, he must simultaneously extinguish five lamps burning in different directions. Hanuman assumes the Panchamukhi or five-faced form of Sri Varaha facing north, Sri Narasimha facing south, Sri Garuda facing west, Sri Hayagriva facing the sky and his own facing the east, and blows out the lamps. Hanuman then rescues Rama and Lakshmana from Mahiravana.

Example of Intense Devotion Set by Lord Hanuman

Shortly after he is crowned Emperor upon his return to Ayodhya, Rama decides to ceremoniously reward all his well-wishers. At a grand ceremony in his court, all his friends and allies take turns being honoured at the throne. Hanuman approaches without desiring any reward. Seeing Hanuman come up to him, an emotionally overwhelmed Rama embraces him warmly, declaring that he could never adequately honour or repay Hanuman for the help and services he received from the noble Vanara. Sita, however, insists that Hanuman deserved honour more than anyone else, and Sita gives him a necklace of precious stones adorning her neck.

When he receives it, Hanuman immediately takes it apart, and peers into each stone. Taken aback, many of those present demands to know why he is destroying the precious gift. Hanuman answers that he was looking into the stones to make sure that Rama and Sita are in them, because if they are not, the necklace is of no value to him. At this, a few mock Hanuman, saying his reverence and love for Rama and Sita could not possibly be as deep as he implies. In response, Hanuman tears his chest open, and everyone is stunned to see Rama and Sita literally in his heart.

This clearly reflects the love, dedication and loyalty that Hanuman had for Sita and Ram. Such pride and loyalty is mandatory for everyone towards the organization that one is working to be greatly successful. It is like patriotism, you are ready to go that extra mile for the success of your organization and you will be richly rewarded in due course of time for your efforts, dedication and loyalty.

Lord is Greater or His Name?

Once, after Lord Rama returned to his kingdom from exile, a group of sages started arguing about the superiority of The Lord’s Name over The Lord Himself. Many opinions were given, yet they were not able to come to any conclusion, so they approached Sage Narada. Sage Narada requested a few days’ time to give an answer to this question.

Sage Narada thought it best to seek Lord Hanuman’s help in solving the problem. He approached Hanuman and requested Him to assist him in the task, to which Hanuman agreed.

Sage Narada told Hanuman, “Make some mischief that will enrage Lord Rama’s Guru, Vishvamitra, so much that He will order Lord Rama to punish You. Then leave the rest to Me.”

Hanuman at once started working on this task. As expected, Lord Rama’s Guru became very angry at Hanuman and told Lord Rama, “Tomorrow morning You must punish Hanuman for the wrong that He has done. In front of the sages and all the townspeople, you will aim your powerful arrows at Him, so that all will witness and learn a lesson about what happens when one annoys the Guru.”

Lord Rama was surprised at His devoted servitor Hanuman’s behavior. But, He had complete obedience unto His Guru, so He accepted the Guru’s instruction and went back to His palace with a heavy heart. In the meantime, Sage Narada told Hanuman to chant Lord Rama’s Name when Lord Rama aimed the arrows at Him.

The next day dawned, and all the sages and townspeople gathered next to the river to witness the punishment that would be given to Hanuman. Lord Rama with a very heavy heart aimed at Hanuman and let go His first arrow. The arrow headed straight for Hanuman, but changed direction at the very last moment, and fell to the ground without touching Him.

Hanuman was standing with his eyes closed, deeply chanting Lord Rama’s Name. All the arrows that Lord Rama aimed at Hanuman missed Him and went in different directions.

When all arrows were over, Lord Rama looked at His Guru. Vishvamitra Guru asked Lord Rama to order the divine weapon (Brahmaastra) that would not miss its target. At that point, Sage Narada interrupted and convinced the Guru, “O great sage, You are great among the Gurus. By forgiving Hanuman, You could give the best example of a loving and compassionate Guru.” The Guru listened to Sage Narada’s advice and forgave Hanuman.

When the incident was over, Sage Narada approached all the sages gathered at the river. They had got their answer through this incident and unanimously agreed on the power of The Lord’s Name.

Moral: Dear friends, this story shows the power of God’s Name. It also shows Hanuman’s devotion to Lord Rama and obedience. We, too, can be protected completely as Hanuman was, by chanting (repeating) the all-powerful Name of God with devotion.

Why Sindhur is Offered to Lord Hanuman?

Hanumanji always wanted to serve his Prabhu Lord Sri Rama.

One day when Sita Matha was entering into Rama’s bedroom, Hanumanji also followed her.

Then Lord Rama said that he cannot enter into the room.

Hanumanji said that when Sita Matha can enter into the room, why can’t he enter the room.

He is having such an innocent devotional service towards Lord Rama. Just to convince Hanumanji.

Rama said that Sita is having a sindhur on her forehead, so she can enter the room.

After hearing that, Hanumanji came out and thought for a while.

Then Hanumanji concluded that sindhur is the qualification required to enter into Lord Rama’s bedroom.

So he decided to ask more about this sindhur to Sita Matha. Next day when Sita was in the dressing table, she was trying to keep sindhur, there came Hanumanji.

Sita Matha treated Hanumanji as her son because Sita and Rama did not have children for a long time.

Then Hanumanji asked Sita about the purpose and value of sindhur.

She understood what he wanted and smiled.

She said that she learnt from elders that if she keeps sindhur, it will elongate the life span of his prabhu. Sita matha did not mention her prabhu but she said Hanumanji’s prabhu. She very well know Hanumanji’s pure love towards Rama.

Hanumanji now understood the secret of this sindhur.

He immediately went to the market in search of sindhur and found one shop. He ran there and asked. The shopkeeper gave him little sindhur in a small box.

Hanumanji said that it is not enough. He just went into the shop, opened all the sacks of sindhur and poured all over his body. He poured some sindhur on the street and rolled over to cover his whole body, from head to toe with sindhur.

Then he came to the palace.

Rama saw Hanumanji and enquired what happened.

On seeing Hanumanji Sita matha started laughing loudly. She understood and told Rama that the previous day she told Hanumanji that the sindhur will increase the lifespan of his prabhu.

Hanumanji thought if a small amount of sindhur on Sita matha’s forehead can increase the lifespan of Rama, then how much it will increase if he puts all over his body. He thought that Rama can live eternally because of this sindhur applied throughout his body. This is the pure love Hanumanji had for Rama.

Moral of the story:

Hanumanji knows that Lord Rama is the Supreme Personality of Godhead. But still due to his unlimited love towards Rama, he thought that the sindhur kept throughout his body only will increase Rama’s lifespan.

We also sometimes behave like this. One day if we are late in offering bhog, we feel that Krishna is hungry, so we must prepare bhoga quickly.

But Krishna is beyond all these things. Due to our love towards Krishna, we feel like that. It means we are building a very nice relationship with the Lord.

Even Devaki, mother of Krishna says in S.B.10.3.29:

janma te mayy asau paapo / maa vidyaan madhusudana
samudvije bhavad-dhetoh / kamsaad aham adhira-dhih

“O Madhusudhana, because of your appearance, I am becoming more and more anxious in fear of Kamsa. Therefore, please arrange for that sinful Kamsa to be unable to understand that you have taken birth from my womb.”

Devaki was so afraid of Kamsa that she could not believe that Kamsa would be unable to kill Lord Vishnu, who was personally present”.

Devaki had pure love for Krishna that is why she was not able to understand that nobody can kill Krishna.

Hanumanji always introduces himself as the servant of Lord Rama.

He never introduced himself as ” I am Hanuman, I am so powerful etc”. He lives completely in the mood of servant to Rama.

We should always remember our eternal position as a servant of Lord. We must completely surrender to Lord Krishna and become His servant.

Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.

PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward and share this moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited by hearing about Krishna and his dear devotees.

Who is Greater – Lord Almighty or His Divine Name?

Once, after Lord Rama returned to his kingdom from exile, a group of sages started arguing about the superiority of The Lord’s Name over The Lord Himself.

Many opinions were given, yet they were not able to come to any conclusion, so they approached Sage Narada.

Sage Narada requested a few days’ time to give an answer to this question.

Sage Narada thought it best to seek Lord Hanuman’s help in solving the problem. He approached Hanuman and requested Him to assist him in the task, to which Hanuman agreed.

Sage Narada told Hanuman, “Make some mischief that will enrage Lord Rama’s Guru, Vishvamitra, so much that He will order Lord Rama to punish You. Then leave the rest to Me.”

Hanuman at once started working on this task. As expected, Lord Rama’s Guru became very angry at Hanuman and told Lord Rama, “Tomorrow morning You must punish Hanuman for the wrong that He has done. In front of the sages and all the townspeople, you will aim your powerful arrows at Him, so that all will witness and learn a lesson about what happens when one annoys the Guru.”

Lord Rama was surprised at His devoted servitor Hanuman’s behavior. But, He had complete obedience unto His Guru, so He accepted the Guru’s instruction and went back to His palace with a heavy heart. In the meantime, Sage Narada told Hanuman to chant Lord Rama’s Name when Lord Rama aimed the arrows at Him.

The next day dawned, and all the sages and towns people gathered next to the river to witness the punishment that would be given to Hanuman. Lord Rama with a very heavy heart aimed at Hanuman and let go His first arrow. The arrow headed straight for Hanuman, but changed direction at the very last moment, and fell to the ground without touching Him.

Hanuman was standing with his eyes closed, deeply chanting Lord Rama’s Name. All the arrows that Lord Rama aimed at Hanuman missed Him and went in different directions.

When all arrows were over, Lord Rama looked at His Guru. Vishvamitra Guru asked Lord Rama to order the divine weapon (Brahmaastra) that would not miss its target.

At that point, Sage Narada interrupted and convinced the Guru, “O great sage, You are great among the Gurus. By forgiving Hanuman, You could give the best example of a loving and compassionate Guru.” The Guru listened to Sage Narada’s advice and forgave Hanuman.

When the incident was over, Sage Narada approached all the sages gathered at the river. They had got their answer through this incident and unanimously agreed on the power of The Lord’s Name.

Moral of the story:

Dear friends, this story shows the power of God’s Name. It also shows Lord Hanuman’s devotion to Lord Rama and obedience. We, too, can be protected completely as Lord Hanuman was, by chanting (repeating) the all-powerful Name of God with devotion.

Srimad Bhagavatam:

āpannaḥ saḿsṛtiḿ ghorāḿ

yan-nāma vivaśo gṛṇan

tataḥ sadyo vimucyeta

yad bibheti svayaḿ bhayam

Living beings who are entangled in the complicated meshes of birth and death can be freed immediately by even unconsciously chanting the holy name of Kṛṣṇa, which is feared by fear personified.

Sri Siksastakam – Text 2

namnam akari bahudha nija-sarva-shaktis
tatrarpita niyamitah smarane na kalah
etadrishi tava kripa bhagavan mamapi
durdaivam idrisham ihajani nanuragaha

O my Lord, Your holy name alone can render all benediction to living beings, and thus You have hundreds and millions of names like Krishna and Govinda. In these transcendental names You have invested all Your transcendental energies. There are not even hard and fast rules for chanting these names. O my Lord, out of kindness You enable us to easily approach You by Your holy names, but I am so unfortunate that I have no attraction for them.

Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.

PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward and share this moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited by hearing about Krishna and his dear devotees.

Story of Lord Hanuman Birth and Childhood

Hanuman was the son of Kesari, a vanar, and the grandson of Brihaspati, the king of Sumeru. His mother Anjana, was an apsara of the heavens and had descended to the earth as human, due to a curse. She and her husband had performed 12 years of penance and intense prayers due to which, Shiva granted them a child, as a boon. The child was Hanuman himself, due to which he is also interpreted as the reflection or shadow of Lord Shiva himself. Other mythological accounts often called Hanuman, as the son of The God of Wind, Vayu Dev, due to the popular story of the Wind God delivering a sacred pudding to Anjana, which originated from King Dasharatha’s ritual of Putrakama Yagya. The same pudding was had by the three wives of King Dasharatha, leading to the birth of Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrughna. This pudding was delivered to her while performing her prayers to Shiva, who steered the Vayu God’s energy into the womb of Anjana. Hence, Hanuman is popularly known as Vayuputra.

Hanuman’s childhood tales are a source of great entertainment, told by grandmothers to the children. Hanuman was a very adventurous and restless child. He is believed to have mistaken the sun to be a ripe and mango, and he pursued it in order to eat it. Rahu, a Vedic planet, was also pursuing the Sun at that time for a scheduled eclipse, and Hanuman thrashed him in order to reach the Sun first. This angered Lord Indra, who struck Hanuman with a thunderbolt. Hanuman fell back to the earth, unconscious, and also damaged his chin, leaving a permanent mark on it. This incident enraged Vayu Dev, his father figure, who sucked out all the air from the universe. When all the humans and animals began to struggle for air, Lord Indra withdrew the effect of his thunderbolt, and revived Hanuman, and was also blessed with multiple boons, by the devas, to pacify the Wind God.

Brahma provided Hanuman with the irrevocable Brahma’s curse, which ensures no one would be able to kill him with any weapon in war. He also blessed with the power of inducing fear in enemies, destroying fear in friends, and to be able to change his form to travel anywhere. Shiva blessed with the boons of longevity, scriptural wisdom, and the ability to cross the ocean, and also gave a band that would protect him for life. Lord Varuna blessed him with the boon of immunity from water. The Lord of Fire, Agni Dev, blessed him with the protection of burning by fire. Surya Dev gave him two blessings of yoga “laghima” and “garima”, using which he can attain the smallest or the largest form respectively. The God of Death, Yama, blessed him with the boons of health and immunity from weapons, thus securing him completely from death. Kubera, the treasurer of the Gods, blessed him with eternal happiness and satisfaction. Kamadeva, the Hindu God of love, blessed him to be free from lust, thus declaring him to be a celibate. His father also blessed him with even more speed. Hanuman then became of student of Surya, and acquired a great deal of knowledge from him. Hanuman then asked Surya to charge a guru dakshina from him, which he denied. However, Hanuman insisted a lot, and finally Surya asked him to help Surya’s spiritual son, Sugriva, as guru dakshina. Hanuman, then became Sugriva’s minister.

Story of Bhima and Lord Hanuman

After Yudhishtra had lost the game of dice, the five Pandavas and their wife Draupadi were exiled from their kingdom for twelve years by the Kauravas. Krishna understood that the Kauravas would never give the Pandavas their kingdom and that a war was coming.

Krishna asked Arjuna to go to Kailash and worship Lord Shiva and get divine weapons from him. Arjuna agreed and left for Kailash. The other four brothers along with Draupadi traveled from one forest to another during the time of their exile.

As the Pandavas made their way from one holy tirthas to another, they finally came to Badrik ashrama in the Himalayan Mountains. It was a very scenic spot that could hardly be described in words. The flowers that bloomed there could not be found anywhere else in the world. One day, as Draupadi was gazing on the beautiful scenery, a strong wind arose and blew a thousand-petaled lotus flower into her lap. The flower had a celestial effulgence, a captivating aroma, and its beauty was unearthly. She took the flower to Bhima and requested, “Behold, O Bhima, this most celestial flower. O repressor of the foes, it has gladdened my heart. I shall present this one to Yudhishtra. Will you also obtain others for my satisfaction so that I may carry them to our hermitage in Kamyaka?”

Bhima was delighted to please Draupadi in some way, and he proceeded to follow the path the scented flower had left. He traced the perfumed air for some time, and suddenly he realized he had covered a long distance. When he blew his conch shell, rousing the lions in the area, he then heard a loud pounding that caused the earth to tremble. As Bhima approached that pounding sound, which was like a challenge to him, he suddenly saw a huge monkey lying on a stone slab. The monkey was waving his tail in the air and dashing it against the ground, causing the tremendous noise that spread in all directions. Bhima was completely amazed, for he had never seen a monkey like this before. The monkey was sitting there with half-opened eyes, calmly blocking the way. As Bhima approached, the monkey advised him, “Young man, why do you make so much noise? Most of the animals in this region were sleeping peacefully, and now you have awakened them. Please be more considerate, and do not be so cruel to the inhabitants of this region. Beyond this point, the forest is impassable. It is a path leading to heaven and cannot be taken by ordinary mortals. Rest awhile here and eat some fruits. After your fatigue is relieved, you may return to your residence.”

Bhima was surprised that the monkey could talk like a human being, and questioned him, “May I know who you are? What monkey speaks like a human being? You must be some demigod in disguise. As for myself, I am the son of Vaayu, and my mother is the chaste Kunti. My name is Bhima, and I am one of the Pandavas.” Bhima then told him the history of how they were exiled to the forest. He also informed the monkey that at the present moment they were waiting for the return of their brother Arjuna from the heavenly planets. The monkey smiled when Bhima told him all this, and said, “I know that I am obstructing your path, but I have become ill and cannot move. If you want my advice, you should return via the path by which you came.”

Bhima’s eyes reddened in anger, and he became very impatient. “I do not want your advice,” he said. “Move out of my way, or I will have to move you myself.”

The monkey replied, “I have grown too old to move and most of the time I simply lie here. If you insist on going further, then you can do so by leaping over my body.”

Bhima was becoming frustrated with the whole matter. He said to the monkey, “You are an elderly personality, and you are lying on my path. It is not proper for me to jump over your body, for the Supreme Soul exists in everyone. It is also disrespectful to elders. If I had not known that Supreme Lord exists in everyone’s heart, then I would have leapt over your body and this mountain as the great Hanuman did when he crossed the sea to Lanka.”

The monkey inquired, “Who is this Hanuman who bounded over the ocean? You speak of him with respect. His name comes with affection from your mouth. Have you met him before? Can you relate something about him?”

The monkey looked at Bhima with a smirk on his face, and Bhima became furious. He exclaimed, “You are a monkey, and you do not know who Hanuman is? Hanuman is the greatest of all monkeys. He is also the son of the wind god Vaayu and is, therefore, my esteemed brother. He is famed for his devotion to Lord Ramachandra. He is the illustrious chief of the monkeys, who is renowned in the Ramayana. When Lord Ramachandra lost his wife Sita, that brother of mine leaped across the sea to Ravana’s abode and discovered her whereabouts. He then set the city of Lanka on fire. Later, he killed many rakshasas generals in the battle of Lanka. He even carried a huge mountain from the Himalayas just to save the life of Lord Ramachandran’s brother, Lakshman. I am insignificant in comparison to his strength, but I am able to fight with you if I have to. I must proceed further into this forest, and you must clear the way.”

The monkey smiled calmly when he saw Bhima’s impatience. He said, “Please do not be angry with me. I tell you the truth when I say that I am too old to move from this spot. If my tail obstructs your path, then just move it aside and go on your way.”

Bhima, thinking that the monkey was failing in energy, thought “I will take hold of his tail and throw this monkey, destitute of strength, to Yamaraja’s abode.” Assured of his prowess, and smiling, Bhima approached the tail, and with his left hand he tried to move the tail as if it were a twig on the ground, but the tail would not move. He tried with both hands, but still he could not lift the tail. He tried again and again, but still he could not budge the tail so much as an inch. The monkey was smiling in amusement, which only increased Bhima’s anger. Bhima tried repeatedly to lift the monkey’s tail till his face was completely red, his eyebrows tightened, his eyes rolled, his face was contracted in wrinkles, and his body was covered with sweat. Finally, Bhima had to admit his defeat. He went before the monkey and prostrated himself, saying, “Please forgive my harsh words. Out of ignorance I have transgressed the conduct of good behavior to elders. Your power is greater than mine, and therefore, you must be some demigod descended from the higher regions. Please tell me who you are.”

The monkey smiled at him and said, “I will gladly tell you who I am. I am the son of the wind god, Hanuman.”

With these words, they tightly embraced each other, and tears of joy came from their eyes. They talked for a long time, and Bhima was thrilled beyond words that he had finally met his brother, whom he had only heard about previously.

Before their departure, Hanuman bestowed a boon on Bhima,

Vijayasya dhvajasthaś ca nādān mokṣyāmi dāruṇān

Śatrūṇāṁ ye prāṇa-harāḥ sukhaṁ yena haniṣyatha

“Staying on the victory flag [of Arjuna], I will shout out fiercely in such a way that it will make the enemies almost lifeless, and thus it will be easy for you to kill them.”

After Hanuman gave this boon to the Pandavas, the brothers embraced and departed.

Panchmukhi Hanuman Stuti Lyrics in English with Meaning

“Om namo bhagavathe panchavadanaaya poorva kapi mukhe
Sakala shatru samhaarnaaya swaaha”
Meaning : ‘The east facing form of Lord Hanuman protects devotees from problems caused by enemies. He provides happiness and fulfills wishes.’

“Om namo bhagavathe panchavadanaaya dakshina mukhe
Karaala vadanaaya Narasimhaaya sakala bhoota praeta pramadanaaya swaaha”
Meaning : The south facing form of Lord Narasimha removes all types of fear, sins, unfavorable influences of spirits and demons, and fulfills our wishes.

“Om namo bhagavathe panchavadanaaya paschima mukhe
Garudaaya sakala visha haranaaya swaaha”
Meaning : The west facing form of Lord Garuda removes all types of ailments, negativities, black magic, poison, and fear.

“Om namo bhagavathe panchavadanaaya uthara mukhe
Aadivarahaaya sakala sampatkaraaya swaaha”
Meaning : The north facing form of Lord Varaha provides the ashta aishwarya (eight different forms of wealth).

“Om namo bhagavathe panchavadanaaya oordhwa mukhe
Hayagrivaaya sakala jana vasheekaranaaya swaaha”
Meaning : The upwards facing form of Lord Hayagriva helps devotees attract the goodwill of people. The words of His devotees turn into reality. He bestows them with advancement in seeking knowledge, good company of friends, intelligence, good children, and salvation.