The Role of Lord Hanuman in the Mahabharata

Apr 26
15:28

2024

Harshad Jethra

Harshad Jethra

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Lord Hanuman, renowned for his pivotal role in the Ramayana, also makes significant appearances in the Mahabharata, demonstrating his enduring presence and influence in Hindu epics. This article explores his lesser-known yet profound contributions to the Mahabharata, highlighting his interactions with key characters and his impact on the epic's events.

Hanuman Meets Bhima

One of the most intriguing tales from the Mahabharata is the encounter between Hanuman and Bhima,The Role of Lord Hanuman in the Mahabharata Articles both sons of the wind god, Vayu. This meeting is not just a familial reunion but also a moment of humility for Bhima. While searching for the Saugandhika flowers for Draupadi, Bhima stumbles upon an old monkey, who is none other than Hanuman, blocking his path. Despite his immense strength, Bhima is unable to move Hanuman's tail, which teaches him a lesson in humility and respect. This encounter serves as a pivotal spiritual and character-building moment for Bhima, emphasizing the themes of strength and humility.

Key Points of the Encounter:

  • Request for Passage: Bhima politely asks the resting Hanuman to move.
  • Test of Strength: Unable to move Hanuman's tail, Bhima realizes the old monkey's divine nature.
  • Revelation and Guidance: Hanuman reveals his identity and offers Bhima advice for his future challenges.

Hanuman and Arjuna's Interaction

Another fascinating episode involves Hanuman and Arjuna at Rameshwaram. Arjuna, upon seeing the bridge built by the Vanaras to Lanka, doubts its strength and boasts about his ability to construct a sturdier bridge with his arrows. Hanuman challenges this claim, leading to the construction of an arrow bridge by Arjuna, which collapses under Hanuman's weight. This incident humbles Arjuna and reinforces the theme of divine intervention and the limitations of human ego.

Critical Aspects of this Episode:

  • Arjuna's Boast: Questions the necessity of the Vanara-built bridge.
  • Divine Challenge: Hanuman tests the bridge made by Arjuna, which fails.
  • Intervention by Krishna: Prevents Arjuna's self-sacrifice and reinforces the bridge, illustrating divine support and protection.

Hanuman's Role in the Kurukshetra War

During the great battle of Kurukshetra, Hanuman played a crucial role by being present on Arjuna's chariot, flagged as a symbol of protection and victory. According to the Mahabharata and various interpretations by scholars, Hanuman's presence intimidated the Kauravas and protected Arjuna's chariot from celestial weapons. This not only highlights Hanuman's role as a protector but also his influence on the morale of the warriors.

Impact on the Kurukshetra War:

  • Symbolic Presence: Hanuman's image on the chariot served as a moral and spiritual boost for the Pandavas.
  • Divine Protection: The chariot was shielded against all odds until Hanuman resided on it.
  • Post-War Revelation: The destruction of the chariot after Hanuman's departure underscored the extent of his protection.

Conclusion

Lord Hanuman's appearances in the Mahabharata enrich the epic's narrative, adding layers of spiritual depth and divine intervention. His interactions with Bhima and Arjuna not only forward the plot but also impart crucial moral and ethical lessons relevant to the characters' development and the broader themes of the epic.

For further reading on Hanuman's diverse roles in Hindu scriptures, visit Encyclopedia Britannica and The British Library. These sources provide extensive insights into his mythological significance and portrayal in various texts.