Lanka Victory Story – Chapter 5: Hanuman's Devotion

Devotion to Hanuman

Distressed by the sorrow of Sita's abduction, Ram and Lakshman were wandering in the Dandaka forest in search of Sita. The deep darkness of the forest and the separation from Sita had filled them with despair, but they had unwavering faith that they would surely bring Sita back. Then, by the decree of destiny, they were about to meet a personality who was to lay the foundation for their victory over Lanka - Hanuman!

Meeting on Rishyamukha Mountain

Rishyamukha Mountain, the abode of the monkeys, seemed to cherish an important meeting in its lap. Frightened by the height of the mountain, Ram and Lakshman became alert upon seeing Sugriva's approaching army. Hanuman, who was Sugriva's most trusted, came to meet them in the guise of a Brahmin. There was sweetness in his voice and radiance on his face. He bowed to both the princes, impressed by their bravery and beauty.

Hanuman humbly asked, "O radiant princes, who are you and for what reason have you come to this inaccessible forest? Your radiance shines like the sun, yet why is sadness spread across your faces? Can I be of any assistance to you?" Lakshman then narrated the story of Sita's abduction and asked for their help. Hanuman was overwhelmed upon hearing the glory of Ram.

Friendship with Sugriva and Pledge

Hanuman seated Ram and Lakshman on his shoulders and took them to Sugriva. Sugriva was also suffering from the loss of his wife Ruma and the atrocities of his brother Bali. Hanuman facilitated friendship between Ram and Sugriva. Sugriva promised to help Ram in the search for Sita, and Ram assured Sugriva of freeing him from Bali. Taking fire as witness, both took an oath of friendship.

Ram assured Sugriva, "Friend, Bali's sins are now full. I have come to establish righteousness and it is my duty to destroy unrighteousness. Rest assured, I will surely punish Bali for his sins." There was an amazing confluence of compassion and justice in Ram's voice.

Bali's Slaying and Sugriva's Coronation

Ram asked Sugriva to challenge Bali for battle. When a fierce battle ensued between Bali and Sugriva, Ram was watching hidden behind a tree. Bali's power was amazing and Sugriva was unable to compete with him. Then Ram killed Bali with an infallible arrow. Grief spread among the monkey army due to Bali's death, but Ram explained to them the path of righteousness.

By killing Bali, Ram did justice to Sugriva and established righteousness. Bali's slaying paved the way for Sugriva's coronation. By Ram's grace, Sugriva became the king of Kishkindha and he promised to cooperate in the search for Sita. Along with this, Ram got a powerful ally in the form of the monkey army, which was to play an important role in the victory of Lanka.

Preparation for the Search for Sita

Now, Sugriva had become the king of Kishkindha and the monkey army was also ready to serve Ram. Hanuman, with his amazing power and devotion, was ready to search for Sita. Ram was confident that only Hanuman could find Sita. In the next chapter, we will see how Hanuman proceeds in the search for Sita and finds her in Lanka.