The Hanuman Chalisa is a Hindu devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god who is revered for his strength, devotion, and loyalty to Lord Rama. Composed by the poet-saint Tulsidas, it consists of 40 verses (chalisa means "forty" in Hindi) written in Awadhi, a dialect of Hindi.
The Hanuman Chalisa is widely recited by devotees for various reasons, including seeking Hanuman's blessings for strength, courage, protection, and overcoming obstacles. It is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.
Lord Hanuman, also known as Shree Hanuman or Anjaneya, is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. He is worshipped as a symbol of strength, devotion, courage, and selfless service. Here are some key aspects of Lord Hanuman:
Birth and Origin : Hanuman is the son of the wind god, Vayu, and Anjana, a celestial nymph. He is also known as Anjaneya, derived from his mother's name. His birth is believed to have occurred to aid Lord Vishnu (in his incarnation as Rama) in his divine mission to defeat the demon king Ravana.
Devotion to Lord Rama : Hanuman's unwavering devotion to Lord Rama is legendary. He played a crucial role in the epic Ramayana, serving as Rama's most loyal devotee, companion, and emissary. He played a pivotal role in rescuing Sita, Rama's wife, from the clutches of Ravana.
Strength and Abilities : Hanuman is depicted as having immense physical strength and supernatural powers. He is often portrayed as a monkey-faced deity with a muscular physique, capable of extraordinary feats. He could enlarge or reduce his size at will, fly across vast distances, and perform miraculous tasks.
Symbol of Service and Devotion : Hanuman is revered for his selfless service, humility, and unwavering devotion to duty. He exemplifies the virtues of loyalty, courage, and sacrifice, making him a role model for devotees seeking to lead a righteous life.
Worship and Festivals : Hanuman is worshipped by millions of devotees worldwide, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious days dedicated to him. The Hanuman Chalisa, as mentioned earlier, is a popular hymn recited by devotees to invoke his blessings. Additionally, Hanuman Jayanti, the birthday of Lord Hanuman, is celebrated with great fervor and devotion across India.
Overall, Lord Hanuman occupies a central place in Hindu mythology and is revered as a divine embodiment of strength, devotion, and righteousness. Devotees seek his blessings for protection, courage, and spiritual upliftment.