“Hanuman is our only hope!”

0rientation

For generations, the Indian masses have heard tales of Ramayan(and other epics) from their elders, saints, preachers, books and so on. Our generation is fortunate to have access to painstakingly done research and fathomless information, and a lot of it is available easily. The times have also changed a lot, hence, it is essential for a rational Indian to periodically read the epics like a work of history, rather than simply listening and accepting those as folktales.

Hanuman is known to have at least the following talents(many more are documented but my focus is on the listed ones):
1. Extreme physical prowess.
2. Unrivalled combat skills.
3. Accomplished career diplomat.
4. Statesmanship.
5. Profound knowledge of the Ved(Hindi: वेद), Shastras(Hindi: शास्त्र), grammar.
6. Astute communicator.

Sadly, the Indian society has reduced Hanuman to a celibate, muscular ‘God’ rather than a versatile person who can serve as an ideal of many skills that are crucial in the practical world. This series of posts will focus on Hanuman and his endeavours from the viewpoint of a history buff

Context

The war in Lanka had entered its final phase. Ravan‘s sons – Trishira, Atikay and Devantak were slained in the battlefield. Upon hearing this news, he was devastated. Indrajeet consoled, reassured Ravan and headed to the battlefield.

Situation

Indrajeet wrought havoc on the army of Vanaras (Hindi: वानर). Using his archery skills and Brahmastra(Hindi: ब्रह्मास्त्र), he injured and knocked out combat leaders and heavyweights like Hanuman, Sugreev, Angad, Dvivid, Rishabh, Gandhamadan, Nal, Neel, Maind, and also the generals – Ram and Lakshman. To honour Brahma’s divine weapon, Hanuman, Ram and Lakshman didn’t resist the Brahmastra. By the twilight, only Hanuman and Vibhishan were able to walk, everyone else was injured and unconscious/immobilised on the battlefield.

Hanuman suggested consoling and encouraging the wounded soldiers, thereafter, Vibhishan and he started to tread the battlefield with torches in their hands. Eventually, Vibhishan found Jambavan. Hundreds of arrows had severely wounded him, he couldn’t open his eyes and could barely speak. Vibhishan was alarmed at the sight and called out to check if Jambavan was alive. The following conversation between them highlights the reliability and indispensability of Hanuman:

Jambavan: “O valorous Rakshas King! I can’t see but I have recognized your voice. First, tell me if Anjani’s and Vayu’s son Hanuman is alive!”.

Vibhishan(taken aback): “Ruksharaj! Why are you solely inquiring about Hanuman, and not Ram & Lakshman? You seem to have more affection for Hanuman than Ram, Lakshman, Sugreev and Angad”.

Jambavan: “O Rakshas King, pay attention to my words – I will tell you why I asked the question!

If Hanuman is alive, even this moribund army is equally alive, but if he is dead, we all are as good as dead.

If Hanuman, who is faster than the Wind(Hindi: वायु) and fierce/mighty (warrior) like the Fire(Hindi: अग्नि), is alive, only then we all can hope to live”.

By this time, Hanuman reached the spot and touched Jambavan’s feet. Hanuman’s touch elated Jambavan. He addressed Hanuman as follows:
” O brave Vanar! Save all the Vanaras…

There is no one as mighty and valorous as you. They all need you. This is an hour for an achiever like you to do great deeds. I don’t see anyone else capable of such a feat.

First, attend Ram and Lakshman. Then, fly over the vast sea and reach the Himalayas. Between the peaks of Kailash and Rishabh, there is a radiant mountain. It contains many species of medicinal herbs. Four of these are so effulgent that they illuminate 10 directions. Their names are – Mrutsanjeevani(Hindi: मृतसञ्जीवनी), Vishalyakarani(Hindi: विशल्यकरणी), Suvarnakarani(Hindi: सुवर्णकरणी) and Sandhani(Hindi: संधानी).

Rush! Waste no time!!! Fetch these herbs and save the Vanaras.”