Maruti (Bal Hanuman)

Lord Shiva was born into this world as the Monkey God Hanuman (11^th Rudravatar) in Treta Yug during the India’s Greatest Epic Ramayan to serve Bhagwan Shri Ram.

Lord Hanuman’s parents were the Wind God Vayu (Pawan) and Devi Anjana. In his childhood, Bal Hanuman was a bundle of mischief. He was very active. So he had a very healthy appetite too. Most of the time he was hungry. He was ready to eat anything that was tasty and within his reach.

Every day, an hour before dawn, Devi Anjana went out to collect some flowers and fruits. Usually Maruti was asleep then so she would leave him at home and would return before he woke up.

One day, she was held up on her way back. Bal Hanuman woke up at the usual time. He was terribly hungry.

He called out to his mother, "Ma I am hungry." He waited for his mother to run to him perhaps that did not happen.

Where are you, Ma? Child Hanuman said loudly but still there was no reply.

He waited a while; then called again, "Where has Mama gone so early in the morning? I am so hungry." Grumbled Maruti.

When he found no sign of Mother Anjani, he decided to find food on his own. He went into the kitchen. There was nothing there that he could eat. All the pots & pans and baskets were empty. Little boy Hanuman was getting hungrier and hungrier every minute.

Why should not I go out and get fruits to eat?" Child thought.

He ran down the steps of his home. Then he noticed a red ball to the east. It was at some distance. It was the sun rising.

Bal Hanuman watched the sight. It was beautiful. The whole sky was aglow with morning twilight; the sun looked like a big juicy fruit. Maruti thought it was a big red ripe watermelon & yumm... I have never eaten this fruit. Mother has never got it for me. I shall get it by myself. It is very big and I am sure it is just what I need now. I can't stay hungry any more.

Child Hanuman took a big leap, determined and continued to fly towards the sun. That took him close to the sun. He reached out for it. He almost had grabbed it but he missed it.

He looked around. He noticed Rahu. Rahu hated the Sun and when so ever he got a chance, he caught the sun in its shadow. That was what he did now. This was what he had been doing since the time immemorial.

Today, he too reached out to cast his shadow on the sun. But Bal Hanuman beat him to it and held the son firmly in his hands. Rahu was furious. He tried to snatch the sun from Maruti but he failed.

Angrily he ran to Devraaj Indra, the King of all the Devatas of Swarg, and complained, Oh! Lord! You gave me permission to cast shadow on the sun, at will. Today, I wanted to do that. But a child monkey snatched it from under my nose in the nick of the time."

Lord of Heaven Indra thundered, "Who is this rascal? Who is this little monkey that has dared to send you back. I shall teach him a lesson."

Swarg King Indra went with Rahu. Both soon came to where Bal Hanuman was holding the sun and almost swallowed the surya.

Devraaj Indra got enraged. He drew (hit) his terrible weapon Vajrayudh and hurled at Maruti. It hit him below the chin. His cheek became swollen. (This is why he came to be known as Hanuman. In Sanskrit language ‘Hanu’ means cheek). He blacked out and fell on the ground with a big thud.

Pawan, the Wind God, saw him wounded, "Who have done this to my son?" he growled and turned. He saw the weapon returning to Devraaj Indra. He lost his temper. He screamed at Indra, "How dare you hit my son? He picked up his son Maruti and ran into a big cave in Patal Lok, the world below grounds of the earth. As the Wind God left the earth, there was no air in the world. Just like he gathered all the wind streams blowing in the universe and kept with him. The universe became empty airless. Not a whiff of wind moved anywhere. Soon it was impossible to breathe. People, animals, trees and all living things struggled to breathe and started to die. It looked as if all creations would come to The End.

"What brings you to me?" asked Lord Brahma.

"You know Lord," said the Devatas with folded hands.

"Yes I know. Didn't you know Indra that Maruti is none else but the Lord Shiva in monkey form? He has gone to the earth to serve and help Bhagwan Shri Ram in the battle against Demon King Ravan. How can you hurt him?" told Lord Brahma.

"I didn't know, Oh Lord! What should we do now?" asked Indra.

"Go to Maruti and ask for forgiveness. Also grant him some of your divine powers. Then Pawan will be happy," Lord Brahma suggested.

The Devatas realized their folly, "Oh! We were fools to annoy the Lord Shiva and Pawan Dev."

Devatas requested Lord Brahma to come with them. They hurried to the cave where Maruti and Pawan Dev were.

Amaravati King Indra muttered some mantras and drew back the effect of the Vajrayudh that still held Maruti unconscious. Maruti woke up. He found the Gods standing with folded arms. They sang his praise. They requested Maruti to release Lord Surya from his grip then after one by one, they gifted immense power to him.

Each god conferred a boon upon the little Maruti. Lord Brahma, the creator said, “you will be immortal (Chiranjeevi).”

“No any weapon will be able to kill him. His body become like my weapon Vajra (BAJRANG). My Vajra affected on his chin (Hanu) so from today his one name will be HANUMAN.” Indradev said to the boy Maruti.

“No any water can be drowned him.” Said Varun, the Water God.

“Fire (Agni) never burnt-out him.” Given boon to Maruti by Agni Dev.

This made Pawan Dev happy. He released the air streams and life returned again on earth.

Gods returned to Heaven. Lord Hanuman ran back to home. He found his mother, holding a basket with full of fruits. He enjoyed the fruits while Pawan Dev told to Anjani, "Know what? Your son has become very powerful. All the Gods came and gifted him some of their secret powers.”

Anjani smiled and saw the little Hanuman eating the last fruit in the basket and became happy.

Sita Vanvas in Ramayan

Bhagwan Shri Ram told to Lakshman, “Before some days, Sita has wished to see forest hermitage for worship of Sages so take her and leave in forest. This is Raj order that you must follow.”

By obeying Ayodhya’s King Raghunandan’s order, Lakshman set out to the forest in a chariot with Devi Sita in it.

With Bhaiya Lakshman in chariot on the way to forest, Devi Sita told to Lakshman, “I have roughly thought about to see forest hermitage and worship of Saints earlier that Raghuveer has fulfilled my wish today, I blessed very much.”

Reaching in thick of the forest, Lakshman requested Mata Sita to get down. Janaki complied with the request but she felt frightened to see the dreadful forest on all sides.

Janak Nandini said, “Bhaiya Lakshman ! There is no hermitage even anywhere around. This dense forest is the abode of fierce wild animals. Why have you brought me here?”

“Respected sister-in-law (Bhabhi) ! Raja Ram has ordered me to leave you here in this forest (लोकापवादके कारण राजा रामने सीताका परित्याग किया है I) and I can never violate his order, you know.” replied Lakshman in a faltering voice.

Hearing these words and thinking…Mera Parityag…Ram…Ram Ne… Maithili fell down senseless.

Lakshman returned to Ayodhya leaving Devi Sita lying there (As per King Siyawar’s order).

Vaidehi said to herself, “Have I been sent to this forest with Lakshman so that you may get rid of me? I have already suffered a lot. Even death is not ready to accept me.” Thinking so, Mithlesh Kumari began to bewail bitterly.

By chance, Saint Valmiki happened to pass that way. Hearing Sita bewail so bitterly, he came to her and said, “Who are you, my daughter? Why are you here alone? And why are you weeping like that?”

“I am Sita, daughter of King Janak of Mithila and Queen of Maryadapurshottam Shri Ram, the ruler of Ayodhya, O Saint??? Saying so, she related her woeful take to the Sadhu.

Hearing Siyadevi’s tale of woe, Maharishi Valmiki could not make out the reason of sending Sita to the forest by her husband Shri Ram. So, he asked, “My daughter! Let me know the reason behind your expulsion.”

“But I myself do not know, O fatherly Saint. My husband’s younger brother Lakshman brought me here in a chariot and left me here when I was lying unconscious under the shock of being expelled from no reason.” Retorted Janak Kumari to the Sadhu.

Then the Saint retorted, “Your father, Janak, has been my disciple. So, you are quite safe, my daughter. Shed all worry and sorrow. Have patience, your husband shall come one day in person to take you. Come with me to my hermitage and stay there.”

Rishi Valmiki gave daughter Sita useful and consoling sermons and took her to his abode.

Parthivi made Maharshi Valmiki’s hermitage her home. Daily in the morning she sat before the Saint to have sermons. She was leading a very simple life full of righteousness.

Tadaka and Subahu Vadh in Ramayan

Two lions of valorous manhood (Ram & Lakshman), Joyously followed the Sage (Vishwamitra) and cast out fear from him.

Fount of compassion and tranquil courage, creators and creations of the vast universe.

Eyes red-rimmed as the lotus, wide and strong chested.

Luminously blue as the lotus, supple and tall as the palm.

How lustrously the yellow becomes them! How well the mighty bows enhance their strong arms.

Shri Ram asked to Brahmarshi Vishwamitra, “Revered Guru, this fearsome place is impassable, and whose are these strange foot-prints?”

Vishwamitra replied to Ram, “Of demonness Tadaka.”

Shri Ram queried to Sage, “Tadaka!”

Guru Vishwamitra told, “Yes, She rules over this vast rocky wasteland and no being escapes with its life from here. Once upon a time, this area was prosperous and peopled. Kald and Karush were the two beautiful cities here. Sage Agastya cursed Tadaka, she became demonness and with her rampaging son Mareech, she destroyed the cities. She has the strength of a thousand elephants.”

Maharshi Vishwamitra further told to Shri Ram & Lakshman, “Be careful…This is Tadaka jungle, she must be hiding somewhere. She has great powers of illusion to take any form. So…be careful.”

Shri Ram give ‘Danush Tankar’ of his bow hence hearing that, Tadaka came in front of them.

Rishi Vishwamitra claimed, “Ram, She is Tadaka.”

Tadaka laughed very badly to them and start her illusion (Maya) but Vishwamitra told to Ram, “Don’t waste time, Ram. The sun is setting. These night creatures grow so powerful in the dark, they’re indestructible. I command you…Kill her.”

Ram revealed, “O’ Seer, my father commanded me to obey every order of yours. By your command, I shall now end this sinner’s life cycle.”

Ram immediately killed Tadaka with an arrow shot from his bow.

Divine Sage Vishwamitra congratulates Ram, “Blessed are you, Ram. May victory be yours. In all three worlds no one but you could have killed Tadaka. I’m now convinced. You’re on this earth only to do the world good. As you have pleased me greatly, I shall give you such divine weapons that in all three worlds, only I possess.”

Shri Ram repudiated, “By considering me worthy of your grace and bounty, you do great honour to this humble servant of yours.”

The Lord Ram & Lakshman came to the Ashram and gladly partook of the fruits & roots offered by the Sages.

In the hermitage, Sage trained the two brothers in use of divine weapons. So after that training, they were fully prepared to fight the demons.

Great Sage Vishwamitra said, “I do know, Ram. Vashishth has imparted to you the skills to make an unsurpassed warrior. But the powers I impart to you today are beyond the reach of Devatas too. Through worldly, heavenly and scientific research and spiritual power I possess divinely powerful weapons that I alone have. For aeons have I sought a man worthy of receiving them, one who will use my powers for the good of the world. I can see that in the future Aryan lands must be saved from demonic evil, and yours shall be the task. And at that time, you’ll need these divine weapons.”

A warrior must bear weapons but bearing of arms have their own rules. To protect the land, nation and any weak being, a valiant man must raise his weapons as Dharma. But arrogance and a desire to exhibit his strength should not lead him to make war or attack someone. It’s against a warrior’s Dharma.  For the knowledge I’m about to impart to you, I shall claim as the Guru’s due only this you shall not misuse them on any innocent being but where you see sin, injustice and oppression, use the weapons to kill the sinner and oppressor.

Lord Ram retorted to sage Vishwamitra, “Respected Sage! Now you may proceed with the performance of Yajnas without any fear.”

“May God bless you with long life, you shall be victorious, Ram.” Said the Sage and he got busy with the rituals, along with his fellow ascetics and hermits.

The news of Tadaka’s killing made both Mareech and Subahu mad with rage. They reached the Yajnas site to desecrate it. A usual they began throwing flesh and bones of dead animals in the sacred fire.

Ram at once shot an arrow which rotated above the sacred altar with such a speed that it formed an umbrella and the Rakshasas failed in their attempt to disturb the holy rituals of the Yajnas.

When Ram let loose the arrow from the bow-string, the demon Mareech was flung hundred miles away to be cast beyond the ocean.

Then Subahu was killed by Lakshman. The Yajnas were completed without any further disturbance.

“O’ sons of King Dasharath, by killing demons, you’ve made our mystic Ashram safe and tranquil. On behalf of the ascetics, I salute you two brothers.” Said Brahmarshi Vishwamitra.

BHEEMA MEETS HANUMAN during the Greatest Indian Epic Mahabharat in Dvapar Yug-The 3rd Yug (Ramayan is belong to 2nd Treta Yug)

ARJUN (3rd of the Pandava brothers) had gone to the Himalayas in quest of divine weapons from his father Devraaj Indra. In case of war he would have to face invincible warriors like Pitamah Bhishma, Dronacharya, Kripacharya, Duryodhan, Karna, Aswatthama and many others. For this it was necessary to acquire more power. The other four Pandavas and Drupad Kanya found life devoid of joy in his absence. Desiring a change of scene, they now moved on in search of a more peaceful place. At last they came to the Narayanasrama forest. They decided to take rest and stay there for a while.

One day, a breeze blew from the north-east and wafted a beautiful flower near DRAUPADI. The beauty and sweet scent of the flower charmed Panchali. She felt a deep desire to possess that flower known as SAUGANDHIKA and requested BHEEM (second of the Pandavas) to get her that flower. She was very insistent. Bheem was only too pleased to satisfy her least desire. He forthwith set out in the direction from which the fragrance was coming from.

The way through the forest was far from easy. Before long at the foot of a mountain he saw a huge old ape man (monkey) resting on his path, blocking his way. He asked the old monkey to get up and clear the way for him.

The monkey was in no mood to oblige. Ape man said, “I am too old and weak to move. You can jump over me.”

Proud Gadadhar, incensed by this insolence, again asked the monkey to move. Bheem told, “You old monkey, you don’t know whom you are talking to. I am a Kshatriya from the Kuru race. I am the son of Kunti and the wind god Vayu. I am Bheem, brother of famous Hanuman. So, if you offend me any further, you will incur my wrath. I command you to better get up and move aside without wasting my time.”

The monkey retorted, “If you are in such hurry, you can move my tail aside and go ahead.” Bheem’s threats did not have any effect on the monkey. Instead, Ape man queried to Bheem, “Who is Hanuman. Tell me what is so great about him. What did he do?”

Bheemasen responded to him, “How can you be so silly and ignorant? Have you not heard of the mighty Hanuman who jumped over to Lanka, across the 100 Yojan wide (400 Kos) sea, to seek and find Devi Sita, Bhagwan Shri Ram’s wife? Indeed you are ignorant.”

The monkey only smiled. Finding no other way, Bheem tried to pull the monkey’s tail aside but he could not move it even a little bit (Here Lord Hanuman uses his GARIMA Siddhi). Bheem put all his might in the endeavor, but to no avail, he was all perspiration. In spite of his best efforts he could not move the tail. As such the question of challenging this monkey for a show of strength did not arise. Bheem felt very humiliated and subdued. He told the monkey, “You are not ordinary monkey. Please tell me who you are. I accept defeat and bow to you.”

LORD HANUMAN appeared in his true original form and said, “Bheem, I am that Hanuman whose name you mentioned a little while ago. I am your brother. Your path ahead is perilous. It is the path of the Devatas and is not safe for men. So I came to caution you. I knew you have come to collect the Saugandhika flower. I shall show you the pond, where this flower grows. You can collect as many as you want and go back.”

Bheemasen was happy. He bowed to God Hanuman and requested him to show his huge form in which he jumped over the 100 Yojan breadth (400 Kos) ocean, to land on Lanka. Bajrang Bali increased his size till he seemed to occupy the whole landscape, like a hill (Here Lord Hanuman uses his MAHIMA Siddhi). His form was dazzlingly white; so Bheem had to cover his eyes.

Resuming his normal form, Chiranjeevi Hanuman embraced Bheem and blessed him. He also assured him, “When you roar like a lion on the battle field, my voice shall join yours and strike terror in the hearts of your enemies. I will be there on the flag of the chariot of Parth. You will be victorious.” With Lord Hanuman’s embrace Bheem’s strength had also increased.

Kapiraaj Hanuman wanted to free his brother Bheem from his ego and to give him greater strength to fight his enemies. Pawanputra Hanuman then took leave of his brother after blessing him.

Following Lord Hanuman’s advice, Bheem collected many Saugandhika flowers from the pond and went back to present them to Yajnaseni, anxiously waiting for his return.

Khar-Dushan & Trishira in the Greatest Indian Epic Ramayan

When Veer Lakshman cut off Shoorpanakha’s nose, she ran for her life and came to her cousins Khar & Dushan.

She burst out, “Down with your strength and power. Just see my condition. Can’t you avenge my insult? ”

Coming to know of the entire story, Demon King Khar told to Trishira, “Tell your 14 Giants demon soldiers to destroy the last twig of their cottage at Panchavati and bring the two men dead or alive, lay them at my sister’s feet, order them to bring the beautiful woman to me.”

Daitya King Khar also asked to Shoorpanakha, “Show them the way of Panchavati and now go at once.”

14 demons came to near Ram’s hut at Panchvati according to direction of Shoorapankha. One demon out of 14 ordered to Shri Ram, “Our Jansthan King Khar has sent us to punish you.  He commands that the beautiful woman with you be sent to serve him.”

Another demon out of 14 revealed to Shri Ram, “If you surrender to him, it is possible that he may take pity on you and let you go.”

Lord Ram retorted, “We are warriors. We roam in the forest for game. We are always ready to face true warriors and never fear them. A true warrior, when he proceeds to the battlefield, never takes recourse to tricks. It is sheer cowardice.”

Giants 14 demons and the arrow one, one death-wielding arrow, at the sight of Ram taking aim fled all their strength, mind and discrimination.

Shoorpanakha come back to his brother King Khar and told that Ram has killed 14 warriors with only one arrow and beheaded all. Demon King Khar has decided to go himself with Dushan and Trishira with 1400 strong force of demons. Khar-Dushan and Trishira marched towards Panchvati with a large army.

Seeing the demons, Bhagwan Shri Ram said to Lakshman, “Brother! Take Sita to a safe place. I shall face these demons.”

Lakshman Jati took Mata Sita into a nearby cave.

Entering the heart of Ram, Sage Agastya caused him to meditate upon the weapon of Enchantment, on the massed ranks of Khar-Dushan’s army; Ram let loose the arrow of Enchantment.

Bhagwan Shri Ram used weapon of enchantment given by Brahmarshi Vishwamitra on Khar-Dushan’s army.

There was only Ram on all four sides, each saw Ram before and trying to slay Ram the enemy ranks fought each other, and none came face to face with Ram.

Because of enchantment, demons fought each other to death under its spell.

Then Lord Shri Ram made short work of Asuras Khar-Dushan & Trishira and were killed in action too except one demon named Akampan, who fled away to save his life. Ram saw him running from the battle-field but did not shoot an arrow at him out of pity.

Akampan proceeded southwards Lanka to inform Demon Boss Ravan in his aerial chariot with Shoorpanakha.

Meanwhile Lakshman came out of the cave along with Mata Janaki.

Bhagwan Shri Ram, Vaidehi and Lakshman Jati returned to their Panchvati cottage near Godavari River in Dandak forest.

SHABARI in Greatest Indian Epic Ramayan

SHABARI was a hunter’s daughter and belong to the Nishadh (Bheel) tribal community. The night before her marriage, she saw that thousands of goats and sheep were brought by her father, which were going to be sacrificed for the marriage dinner. Moved by compassion, during the early hours of the morning, she renounced the world and ran away to meet a Master (Guru). After days of traveling, she met Sage Matang at the foothills of Rishyamuk Parvat and accepted him as guru, serving him with devotion. When her guru Matang Muni was about to die, Shabari—now an old woman—says that after serving him throughout her life, she wanted to reach the same “abode of peace” which Matang Muni reached. Thereupon, the Muni said that by the virtue of her seva (service), Bhagwan Shri Ram shall give her darshan and asks her to wait for his arrival. Saying thus, the sage sitting in lotus posture attains Mahasamadhi. As per her guru’s words, Shabari waits for the arrival of Shri Ram.

Everyday Shabari would go out of her ashram, with the help of a walking stick and pluck berry fruits for Lord Ram. She would pluck a berry fruit, first taste it, and if it was sweet she would put it in her basket and discard the bitter ones. She wanted to give the good and sweet fruits to Ram. The thought never came to her that she should not taste it before it was offered to a deity. Traditional writers use this narrative to indicate that in bhakti, faults are not seen by God. Thus collecting a few fruits, Shabari went back to her ashram and eagerly anticipate Ram’s arrival. Shabari is commonly used as a metaphor for an endless wait for God.

According to the Ramayan story, even though hundreds of other yogis were waiting to receive Bhagwan Shri Ram in their ashrams, Shri Ram went only to Shabari’s ashram because of her sincere devotion. On seeing Bhagwan Ram, Shabari became ecstatic and said, “There were so many exalted yogis waiting for your darshan, but you came to this unworthy devotee. This clearly shows that you will neither see whether a devotee lives in a palace or humble hut, whether he is erudite or ignorant – neither sees caste nor color. You will only see the true bhakti – I do not have anything to offer other than my heart, but here are some berry fruits. May it please you, my Lord.” Saying so, Shabari offered the berry fruits she had meticulously collected to Ram. When Ram was tastings them, Lakshman raised the concern that Shabari had already tasted them and therefore unworthy of eating. To this Shri Ram said that of the many types of food he had tasted, “nothing could equal these berry fruits, offered with such devotion. You taste them, then alone will you know. Whomsoever offers a fruit, leaf, flower or some water with love, I partake it with great joy.” Lakshman Jati didn't taste the berry fruits. He brought them to his mouth but threw them aside considering them as impure.

Pleased with Shabari's devotion, Lord Ram blesses her with his vision. Shri Ram notices the donas or bowls of handmade leaves in which she had offered the fruits and is impressed by the hard work, Shabari has gone through to make them and hence blesses the tree, so that the leaves naturally grow in the shape of a bowl. Shabari also tells Ram to take help from Sugreev and where to find him. She redirects Ram & Lakshman towards Hanuman and Sugreev.

Bhagwan Shri Ram delivers his discourse on nava-vidha/Navadha bhakti (Ninefold Devotion) to Shabari.

After this divine incident, Shabari attained Moksha (Liberation).

Hanuman seated Bhagwan Shri Ram & Sheshavatar Lakshman on his shoulders and began to fly towards Rishyamook Parvat

Hanuman disclosed two ways that led to Sugreev’s abode. One of the ways was very long but easy while the other was very short but very difficult.

Hanuman said to Lord Shri Ram & Lakshman, “Come with me, short way up is very difficult but you both sit on my shoulders, I’ll carry you flying through the air. (Pawanputra Hanuman travels in sky with the help LAGHIMA Siddhi. He can travel thousands of miles in a minute).”

Lakshman questioned to Hanumanji, “But how can you carry us both!”

Hanuman retorted “Don’t feel shy or amazed, dear Lakshman. To assume any form I want and to grow (MAHIMA siddhi) & shrink (ANIMA siddhi) in size is known to me. I have a boon that enables me to change myself to whatever form I like.”

“To traverse this impregnable mountain path, Come with your true eternal servant, O Lord. Pray, be seated on your devotee’s humble shoulders, And thus exalt your devotee’s honour, O Lord.”

“Where in the world is a devotee as this…or a Lord so merciful, Seating two great warriors on his shoulders, went forth valiant Hanuman.”

Hanuman seated Bhagwan Shri Ram & Sheshavatar Lakshman on his shoulders and began to fly towards Rishyamook Parvat.

On the way he showed them plants laden with flowers, rapidly flowing waters of brooks, caves, chief mountain peaks and charming valleys. Also, he showed them lakes filled with garlic-colored waters with half-bloomed buds in them. Cranes, swans, water-fowls and several other water-birds were frolicking in water. Soft grass-eating wild deer were either grazing soft blades of grass or were resting after having had their fill.

Here and there were seen Vanara warriors with gigantic muscular bodies. One of them was Angad, the son of Kishkindha King Vali. He was gazing at the movements of Hanuman with a keen sight.

Kevat Ka Ram-Prem (Bank of Holy River Ganga)

When Sumantra had proceeded back to Ayodhya, Bhagwan Shri Ram, Anuj Lakshman & Devi Sita with Nishadraaj Guh came to the ferry (Bank of Holy River Ganga). Nishadraaj Guh asked Boatman to carry them across the Ganga.

Meantime, Lord Shri Ram goes into Ganga’s bankside water, take holy water in hand and pray to Ganga:

“Born of Vishnu’s holy feet, you are named from him (Vaishnavi),

You flow through mountains, O protector of the world! O Great Mother Ganga! I bow to you.”

Boatman came but refused to carry and said with folding his hands to Lord Shri Ram, “My Lord! I have heard that the touch of your feet has a magical effect. Anything touching them turns into a lovely woman. Is it true that a rock turned into a lady (Ahalya) on touching your feet? My boat is made of wood only. If it changes into a woman, my family is sure to starve. No, my Lord, no! You’ll not enter my boat.”

God Shri Ram smiled and asked to Boatman, “Then how’ll we cross the Ganga? And how can your doubt be set at rest, friend? Let me know.”

Boatman replied to Lord Shri Ram “There is only one way.”

Lord Shri Ram further inquired, “That is what?”

Boatman revealed, “If there’s magic in the dust from your feet, I’ll first scrub them, then wash them well. Collect the water and then drink it, if the magic doesn’t affect me, then I’ll let you step into my boat. Ok…Think it over…shall I send for some Ganga water? ...Boatman louded to his wife Parvati to bring some Ganga water.”

“All right; wash my feet and get us across at once,” vocalized Shri Ramchandra.

Boatman’s wife Parvati brings Gangaajal in Katharot (कथौटा/कथरोट).

The Boatman washed Bhagwan Shri Ram’s feet with the holy water of Ganga.

Having set his doubt at rest, the Boatman made Lord Shri Ram; Lakshman & Sita with Nishadraj sit in his boat and began to row it towards the other bank.

Reaching the other back, all the four got down. The Boatman lay prostrate at Prabhu Shri Ram’s feet. Lord Shri Ram felt that he must pay the Boatman his wages and understanding husband’s thought, Sita took off her Gold Ring then after Bhagwan Shri Ram handing it across to the Boatman and said, “Here is your wages.”

Boatman gives very good answer to Lord Shri Ram:

“A washerman takes no money from fellow washerman, A barber takes naught from fellow barber, You are a boatman (Bhav-Sagar Khevaiya) and I am boatman too, So how can I take from you the ferry charge? Ferry me across this of sorrow, O’ Lord, Help me alight when I reach your bank but pay me not my ferry charge.” Saying so, the Boatman folded his hands and said, “I have already got it, the wash of Lord Shri Ram’s feet is much more than my wages. It has done away with all my sins, sorrow and difficulties. So, I don’t want anything now.”

Bidding farewell to the Boatman, Prabhu Shri Raghunathji worshipped Lord Ganesha & Shiva while Devi Sita implored the holy river Ganga, “O Sacred Mother Ganga! I’ve achieved my heart’s desire on seeing you, Now, Bless me when I return from exile with my husband and devarji, I may worship you once again. Fulfill my heart’s desire, Hey! Mother Ganga!"

Said Ganga Maiya then:

“Listen, Vaidehi, beloved wife of Lord Shri Ram, who in world knows not your glory!

On whom you look they become guardians of heavens,

And all mystic powers wait upon with folded hands,

By deigning to address your prayers to me, you grace me with your favour and exalt me highly,

With your beloved lord and his brother, you shall return in all safety to Ayodhya,

Every wish of your heart shall come true, and your fair fame shall spread throughout the world.”

“The night passed under the open sky, in the company of Sita, Anuj and friend,

At daybreak did awake the most auspicious Lord Raghunath, to journey towards holy Prayag.”

Lord Shri Ram accompanied by his brother, wife and friend Nishadraj, crossed the dense forest and came to Prayag, a town at the confluence and on the banks of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. God Shri Ram found bliss, along with Sita and Anuj Lakshman with Nishadraj.

“To behold the confluence of the holy rivers three,

Came a human confluence of noble beings three.”

Luv & Kush (Sita's twin sons) caught Ayodhya King Shri Ram's Ashwamegha Yajna White Horse at Maharshi Valmiki Ashram

One day, Bhagwan Shri Ram accompanied by his prime minister, Sumantra, and his three brothers (Lakshman, Bharat and Shatrughn) went to the Kulguru Vashishth’s Ashram. Bowing low before the Saint, Shri Ram said with folded hands, “Revered Preceptor! I have done a number of Yajnas, so to say. But my subjects are insisting on a horse-sacrifice Yajna (Ashwamedha Yajna).”

“May your desire be duly fulfilled, Ram” Saying so, the Saint said to Bharat, “My son! Go and start preparations for the Ashwamedha Yajna.”

“I’m here to obey you, Guruji,” Saying so, Bharat, Lakshman and Shatrughn left the hermitage.

When the preparations for the Yajna were over, Lord Shri Ram and Guru Vashishth inspected them and they felt very pleased to see the arrangements that the three younger princes (Lakshman, Bharat and Shatrughn) had made. They praised their efforts and blessed them.

Now Shri Ramchandra summoned a number of messengers and gave them certain directions. Then they were sent to various Kings and Rulers with a view to informing them of the forthcoming Yajna. Not only this, some messengers were sent to request the celebrated Saints of the day to come and grace the occasion. It was done in consultation with Kulguru Vashishth.

Receiving the invitation, a number of Kings and Rulers arrived at Ayodhya to take part in the Yajna. They included Sugreev, Vibhishan, Jambvant, Nal & Neel, Vishwamitra also reached the site of the Yajna.

King Janak (Mithila Naresh), on being informed, marched to Ayodhya along with his four winged army and a large number of Saints including his Royal Priest Shatanand. Bharat was given the responsibility of entertaining the guests.

Directed by his Preceptor, God Shri Ram got prepared a Gold image of his wife Sita because Gurudev Vashishth had told him that no Yajna is considered to be complete until and unless the wife sits on the left of the husband, the performer of the Yajna. Everybody who was present on the occasion praised the Gold image of Janak Kumari.

Two thousand scholarly Brahmanas were deputed to recite the mantras. Also a beautiful White Horse was decorated profusely and brought to the site of the performance. Thus the Yajna was started in the month of magha (January) and Shri Ramchandra made offerings of Yajna material to the sacred fire as instructed by the priests.

After the completion of the Yajna, the white horse was brought near the sacred fire and necessary worship was performed. Than a Tilak was put on the fore-head of the horse, also, a declaration was hung from its saddle –

“Ram, The Ruler of Ayodhya, claims superiority to all the Kings. Any on who likes to defy this claim, should catch the horse and invite a war from the master of horse. If the claim is acceptable, a yearly tribute should be sent to Ram.”

Then taking out an invincible arrow from his quiver, Lord Raghuveer handed it across to Shatrughn and said, “Brother! Accost this horse and return after winning all the Kings.”

“I’ll do the needful, brother.” Saying so, Shatrughn took the arrow.”

Deputed for the over-all victory, Shatrughn proceeded on this mission along with the Yajna-horse and a strong contingent of soldiers with him. The force included four thousand horses, two thousand chariots and elephants, a large number of campers, entertainers and dancers.

Shatrughn was given special instructions not to trouble anybody anywhere during the journey until and unless somebody comes forward with defiance of the declaration hung from the saddle of the Yajna-horse.

The first encounter took place between Shri Ram’s force and Lavnasur, a very powerful demon chief, who had defeated Devatas, Nagas and a number of Kings of his area.

Shatrughn besieged the capital of Lavnasur who came out with a large army to face Shatrughn. A fierce battle followed. Seeing Lavnasur killing the Koshala soldiers, Shatrughn shot Shri Ram’s invincible arrow at him and he fell down dead on the ground. As a result, his soldiers ran away and victorious Shatrughn proceeded forward.

The news of Lavnasur’s defeat and death broke the pride of other headstrong Rulers and all of them accepted the over-lordship of Shri Ram without taking courage to any sort of opposition.

Shatrughn went on marching forward extending Shri Ram’s sway on every region he passed through.

Now Shatrughn entered a dense forest. The White Horse was being followed by Shri Ram’s army under Shatrughn. It was the very forest where Maharshi Valmiki had his Ashram and where Luv & Kush lived along with their mother (Sita).

When the twin brothers Luv & Kush saw the White Horse, they liked it very much. Luv said to his brother, “Kush! Look at that horse. How fine it is! I feel like catching it and keeping it for our daily rides.”

“All right; let us catch it.” Saying so, Kush advanced to catch the horse. Luv followed him closely too. Both the brothers caught the horse and tied it to a nearby tree.

Ayodhya' Princes Ram, Lakshman, Bharat & Shatrughn learning Astra-Shatra Vidya_Bow & Arrow_in Guru Vashishth’s Ashram

As the Princes Ram, Lakshman, Bharat and Shatrughn grew up; the Ayodhya King Dasharath decided to send them to the Guru Vashishth’s Ashram for all-round education befitting for the Princes.

There they were to live as continents (brahmacharis) till the age of 25 years and attain knowledge at the feet of the great guru.

The Princes were soon informed that they were to go to the hermitage of the royal priest. So, they prepared themselves for that. Soon, they got their hair shorn and dressed up as continents in coarse clothes of saffron colour.

At Sage Vashishth’s hermitage, the Princes started learning various disciplines at the feet of the great guru. The Sage imparted them knowledge of Astra-Shatra Vidya-अस्त्र-शस्त्र चलानेकी विद्या-(Bow & Arrow) befitting the Princes of a great kingdom.

The Princes devoted themselves to studies and served the Sage as humbly as they could. Sage Vashishth imparted them to the knowledge of the three aspects of God’s Power – Creation, Preservation and Destruction.

Also, he told them that the life-span of a man has four parts:-

(1) From birth to the age of 25 years Brahmacharya (continence)

(2) From the age of 25 years to the age of 50 Grihasth (house-holder)

(3) From the age of 50 years to the age of 75 Vanapratha (detachment)

(4) From the age of 75 years to death Sanyas (renunciation)

Guru Vashishth imparted instruction on state matters too to the four Princes. Apart from it, he guided them in day-to-day worldly dealing as well. He explained to them the use of Saam (allurement), Daam (greed), Dand (punishment) and Bhed (division).

As for the spiritual teaching, the great guru said, “Three qualities are found in human-beings.”

(1) The Satva (higher values, i.e. virtues)

(2) The Rajas (worldly values, i.e. luxuries)

(3) The Tamas (baser values, i.e. vices)

“Every person has one type of the above mentioned qualities in himself/herself prominently. Whereas virtues lead a man to piety and goodness, vices lead him to impiety and evil.”

Sage Vashishth explained to the Princes that human body is made up of five elements – Air (वायु), Water (जल), Sky/Space (आकाश), Earth (पृथ्वी) and Fire (अग्नि). Also, that man is the supreme creature among all living-beings.

The Sage said, “One must hold his parents and gurus in high esteem. They must be loved, served and respected.”

“Moreover, truth is the greatest power and it always conquers in the end. Untruth or falsehood leads to sins.”

“Love of creatures is love of God whereas hatred earns his wrath.”

The Princes took an oath to follow the instructions of the great guru to the letter. They were now well-informed to step into the life of house-holders.

The Princes were just nearing the end of Brahmacharya period. So, Sage Vashishth decided to teach them the duties of a good ruler and the art of state-craft.

The Sage said, “A ruler must know that the crown he wears is not a sign of greatness. It is a basket of duties towards his subjects. If a ruler performs his duties well, he is certainly great. But if he ignores them, he is sure to have a fall. Protection of the people is the first and foremost duty of a ruler.”

“Secondly, he must be just and impartial in every matter.”

“Thirdly, he must try to make his people happy and prosperous.”

“In short, if a king is greater than his people, his duties are far heavier and harder too.” said the great guru.

The education of the Princes having been complete, Sage Vashishth sent message to King Dasharath. The King at once followed that the Sage wanted the Princes to return to Ayodhya.

Shoorpanakha in Greatest Indian Epic Ramayan

Shoorpanakha was a sister of Ravan, the King of Lanka. She was a crooked, cruel and lascivious immoral demon-ness. One day she chanced to pass by Panchvati where she happened to see Bhagwan Shri Ram and Sheshavatar Lakshman.

“Overwrought with emotion was shoorpanakha, She lost her heart and mind both, Beholding the beauty of Ram-Lakhan, Bedazzled were her astonished eyes. Her inflamed heart was out of control.”

Seeing them she thought, “Aha! How handsome they both are! If I could marry one of them, I would be happy all through my life.”

“Overcome by urgent lust, blinded in mind was the wanton woman, Casting her web of illusion, she assumed a desired form.”

Thinking so, she came near Shri Ram’s hut and changed her body. She came into the form of a very charming lady and hid herself behind a tree so that nobody should be able to see her.

Now Shoorpanakha came to Shri Ram and said, “Who are you, Youngman? You are garbed like ascetic. But your bow speaks of the warriors besides the hermit. Who are you in truth?  What for have you come to this land of the demons?”

“Gracious Lady, of him who was god-like in valour and Dharmatma, You must have heard of King Dasharath.  I am Ram, the son of that very King Dasharath, the ruler of Ayodhya. I have been exiled for fourteen years. I want to pass this period here in peace. But may I know who are you, O demon maiden? “ Said Lord Raghuveer.

“I am demon princess Shoorpanakha, the sister of Ravan, the powerful ruler of Lanka. My given name is Tambasini. I can assume any form as I am born of demon race. Ravan, the grandson of Sage Pulastya and son of King Vishrava, the mighty conqueror of the world, is my brother. The great mahabali Kumbhakarna and Dharmatma Vibhishan are my brothers. They have the total right to this vast area. The governors of this area are my cousins – Khar and Dushan. They both are matchless renowned warriors. Kuber, the keeper of the Devata’s wealth, is my brother too. I want to marry you. I am by all means a suitable match for you,” replied Shoorpanakha.

“I am glad to know your lineage. But I am already married. Here is my wedded wife Sita. Well, that Youngman is my younger brother Lakshman. He is a nice match for you in every respect and alone in the forest at least.” God Shri Ramchandra suggested by way of joke.

Now Shoorpanakha went to Veervar Lakshman and said, “I have not been able to find a matching life-partner for myself anywhere in all three worlds. Now I have come to you. I see that you are the most handsome and powerful man and I am the most charming lady on this earth. I am worthy of you in every way and you are worthy of me. Ours will be a union beyond compare. God must have made us for each other. Accept my proposal. Let us marry and live happily.”

“O Majestic Lady! You are a demon princess while I am a mere servant of that man (Shri Ram). Is it proper for you to wed me? Lakshman responded to Shoorpankha.

“No’ Saying so, Shoorpanakha flew into a rage. She came back to her demonic form and returned to Shri Ram and said. “I see that you are not ready to wed me only because of this ugly worthless wife of yours. I will destroy her without a trace! So, I must devour her up before your very eyes! I will chew up this juicy tender flesh!  Then you will marry me.” With these words, Shoorpanakha advanced towards Janaki and pounced on her.

Seeing the fearful demon-ness felling upon her, Vaidehi exclaimed in fear, “Lakshman! Save me from her.”

Hearing Janak Kumari’s shouts, Lakshman at once ran towards Shoorpanakha with a dagger in hand and cut off her nose. He said, “Here is your reward for attacking Devi Sita.”
Shoorpanakha ran for her life with weeping bitterly.