Imagine a brave monkey warrior, Hanuman, sent on a secret mission to the golden city of Lanka. But instead of finding peace, he encounters the evil king, Ravan, who imprisons him and burns his powerful tail!
So, how does Hanuman respond? Does he cry and give up?
No!
He unleashes a fiery revenge that leaves Lanka in flames!
The brave monkey god – Lord Hanuman – plays a pivotal role in Ramayana, one of which is burning the mighty city of Lanka.
Lanka – the land of Ravan
Lanka, ruled by the demon king Ravan, was a symbol of evil and injustice. The city dazzled with its riches, tempting even the noblest hearts. Ravan’s arrogance and cruelty reached insufferable heights, prompting Lord Ram to wage war against him.
From Messenger to Mischief-Maker
Hanuman wasn’t just any messenger. He was a loyal follower of Lord Ram and had exceptional strength and determined devotion. When Ram’s beloved wife, Mata Sita, was abducted and taken to Lanka by Ravan, Hanuman leaped across the ocean to rescue her.
The Search for Sita
Hanuman infiltrated Lanka in search of Sita. Upon finding her captive in Ashoka Vatika, he reassured her and burned the garden as a symbolic act of defiance against the oppressor.
A Warning Ignored!
Hanuman offered Ravan a chance to repent and release Sita, warning of dire consequences if he persisted in his wrongdoing. However, Ravan, blinded by arrogance, insulted Hanuman and set his tail ablaze. Instead of cowering, Hanuman used his burning tail as a torch, leaping from building to building, setting the entire city on fire!
More Than Just Revenge
Was it just fiery revenge? Some say yes, a punishment for Ravan’s cruelty. But others see deeper meaning. By burning Lanka, Hanuman aimed to demonstrate the consequences of sin and the victory of righteousness.
The flames symbolized the purification of the land from the clutches of evil, paving the way for justice and righteousness to prevail. The roaring flames served as a message to Sita, letting her know she wasn’t forgotten. It was the darkness Ravan brought to Lanka.
The Aftermath and Beyond
Lanka was rebuilt, but the fire’s impact lasted. It kindled Lord Ram’s determination to rescue Sita, leading to the epic war between good and evil.
Hanuman’s actions, driven by loyalty and courage, continue to inspire, reminding us to fight for what’s right, even when faced with flames.
Feature Image Credit: Pinterest.