The Hanuman Chalisa is more than just a prayer for millions of devotees—it’s a powerful hymn that connects them deeply with Lord Hanuman. No matter whether you recite it in the quiet of the morning or during a challenging moment, the Hanuman Chalisa offers comfort, strength, and a sense of peace.
But what exactly is the Hanuman Chalisa? What does it mean, and why is it so significant? We’ll learn all of this in this comprehensive blog.
The Origins of the Hanuman Chalisa
The Hanuman Chalisa was composed by the revered saint-poet Tulsidas in the 16th century. Tulsidas, known for his deep devotion to Lord Rama, wrote this hymn as a tribute to Lord Hanuman, the mighty monkey god and an ardent devotee of Lord Rama.
The Hanuman Chalisa is written in Awadhi, a dialect of Hindi, and consists of 40 verses, hence the name ‘Chalisa’ (which means forty in Hindi).
Tulsidas composed the Hanuman Chalisa to introduce common people to the powerful stories and attributes of Lord Hanuman. It’s said that reciting the Chalisa with true devotion can invoke Hanuman’s blessings, bringing protection, courage, and resilience.
Meaning of Hanuman Chalisa
Hanuman Chalisa is basically a call to invoke the blessings of Lord Hanuman. Each verse of the Chalisa holds deep significance. Here's a breakdown of the Hanuman Chalisa, verse by verse:
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1. श्रीगुरु चरन सरोज रज, निज मन मुकुर सुधार। बरनऊं रघुबर बिमल जसु, जो दायक फल चार॥ Shri Guru Charan Saroj Raj, Nij Manu Mukur Sudhari Barnau Raghuvar Bimal Jasu, Jo Dayaku Phal Chari Translation: I clean the mirror of my mind with the dust of the lotus feet of the guru (teacher). I then describe the pure, untainted glory of Lord Rama, which bestows the four fruits of life—dharma (righteousness), artha (prosperity), kama (desires), and moksha (liberation). 2. बुद्धिहीन तनु जानिकै, सुमिरौं पवन-कुमार। बल बुद्धि विद्या देहु मोहिं, हरहु कलेस विकार॥ Buddhiheen Tanu Janike, Sumirau Pavan-Kumar Bal Buddhi Vidya Dehu Mohi, Harahu Kalesh Vikar Translation: Knowing myself to be devoid of intelligence, I meditate upon you, O Hanuman, the son of the wind god. Grant me strength, wisdom, and knowledge, and remove my sorrows and flaws. 1. जय हनुमान ज्ञान गुन सागर। जय कपीस तिहुं लोक उजागर॥ Jai Hanuman Gyan Gun Sagar Jai Kapis Tihun Lok Ujagar Translation: Victory to Hanuman, the ocean of knowledge and virtue. Victory to the lord of the monkeys, who is renowned in all three worlds. 2. राम दूत अतुलित बल धामा। अंजनि-पुत्र पवनसुत नामा॥ Ram Doot Atulit Bal Dhama Anjani-Putra Pavan-Sut Nama Translation: You are the messenger of Lord Rama, the repository of immeasurable strength, and are known as Anjani’s son and the son of the wind god. 3. महावीर विक्रम बजरंगी। कुमति निवार सुमति के संगी॥ Mahabir Bikram Bajrangi Kumati Nivar Sumati Ke Sangi Translation: Great warrior, valiant and mighty like a thunderbolt, you dispel evil thoughts and are a companion to those with pure minds. 4. कंचन वरण विराज सुबेसा। कानन कुंडल कुंचित केसा॥ Kanchan Baran Biraj Subesa Kanan Kundal Kunchit Kesa Translation: Your body is golden-hued, and you are beautifully adorned. You wear earrings, and your hair is curly. 5. हाथ बज्र और ध्वजा विराजे। कांधे मूँज जनेऊ साजे॥ Hath Bajra Aur Dhvaja Biraje Kandhe Munj Janeu Sajai Translation: You carry a mace and a flag in your hands, and you wear the sacred thread made of munja grass on your shoulder. 6. शंकर सुवन केसरी नंदन। तेज प्रताप महा जग बंदन॥ Shankar Suvan Kesari Nandan Tej Pratap Maha Jag Bandan Translation: You are the incarnation of Lord Shiva and the son of Kesari. Your glory and valor are revered throughout the universe. 7. विद्यावान गुणी अति चातुर। राम काज करिबे को आतुर॥ Vidya Van Guni Ati Chatur Ram Kaj Karibe Ko Atur Translation: You are full of knowledge, virtues, and wisdom. You are ever eager to perform Lord Rama’s tasks. 8. प्रभु चरित्र सुनिबे को रसिया। राम लखन सीता मन बसिया॥ Prabhu Charitra Sunibe Ko Rasiya Ram Lakhan Sita Man Basiya Translation: You are fond of hearing the glorious deeds of Lord Rama. You dwell in the hearts of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita. 9. सूक्ष्म रूप धरि सियहिं दिखावा। विकट रूप धरि लंक जरावा॥ Sukshma Roop Dhari Siyahi Dikhava Vikat Roop Dhari Lank Jarava Translation: You took on a small form to appear before Sita, and assumed a fearsome form to burn Lanka. 10. भीम रूप धरि असुर संहारे। रामचंद्र के काज संवारे॥ Bhim Roop Dhari Asur Sanhare Ramachandra Ke Kaj Sanvare Translation: You assumed a gigantic form to destroy demons and accomplished the tasks of Lord Rama. 11. लाय सजीवन लखन जियाए। श्री रघुबीर हरषि उर लाए॥ Laye Sanjivan Lakhan Jiyaye Shri Raghubir Harashi Ur Laye Translation: You brought the Sanjeevani herb and revived Lakshmana, for which Lord Rama embraced you with joy. 12. रघुपति कीन्ही बहुत बड़ाई। तुम मम प्रिय भरतहि सम भाई॥ Raghupati Kinhi Bahut Badai Tum Mam Priya Bharat-Hi Sam Bhai Translation: Lord Rama praised you greatly, saying you are as dear to him as his brother Bharata. 13. सहस बदन तुम्हरो जस गावे। अस कहि श्रीपति कंठ लगावे॥ Sahas Badan Tumharo Jas Gaavein Asa Kahi Shripati Kanth Lagaavein Translation: Saying that even a thousand mouths would not suffice to sing your glories, Lord Rama embraced you. 14. सनकादिक ब्रह्मादि मुनीसा। नारद सारद सहित अहीसा॥ Sankadik Brahmadi Munisa Narad Sarad Sahit Ahisa Translation: Even the sages like Sanaka and the gods like Brahma, along with Narada, Saraswati, and Shesha, sing your praises. 15. यम कुबेर दिगपाल जहाँ ते। कवि कोविद कहि सके कहाँ ते॥ Yam Kuber Digpal Jahan Te Kabi Kobid Kahi Sake Kahan Te Translation: Yama, Kubera, and the guardians of the directions cannot describe your full glory, even if they try. 16. तुम उपकार सुग्रीवहिं कीन्हा । राम मिलाय राजपद दीन्हा ॥ Tum Upakaar Sugriivahi Kiinhaa Raam Milaay Raajapad Diinhaa Translation: You helped Sugriva by introducing him to Lord Rama who then helped him get back his Kingship. 17. तुम्हरो मंत्र विभीषण माना । लंकेश्वर भये सब जग जाना ॥ Tumharo Mamtra Vibhiissann Maanaa Lamkeshvar Bhaye Sab Jag Jaanaa Translation: Likewise, following your preachings, even Vibhishana became the King of Lanka. 18. जुग सहस्त्र जोजन पर भानू, लील्यो ताहि मधुर फल जानू॥ Yug Sahastra Jojan Par Bhanu. Leelyo Taahi Madhur Phal Jaanu. Translation: Across a distance of thousands of yojanas (a measure of distance) stood the Sun, which you thought of as a sweet fruit and swallowed it. जलधि लांघि गए अचरज नाहीं। Prabhu mudrika meli mukha mahee Jaladhi langhee gaye acharaja nahee Translation: With Lord Rama's ring in your mouth, you leaped across the ocean, and it was no surprise. 20. दुर्गम काज जगत के जेते, सुगम अनुग्रह तुम्हरे तेते॥ Durgam kaj jagat ke jete Sugam anugraha tumahre tete Translation: All the difficult tasks in the world become easy through your grace. 21. राम दुआरे तुम रखवारे। होत न आज्ञा बिनु पैसारे॥ Ram dware tum rakhavare, Hota na agyaa binu paisare Translation: You are the gatekeeper at Lord Rama’s door, and none can enter without your permission. 22. सब सुख लहै तुम्हारी सरना। तुम रक्षक काहू को डरना॥ Saba sukha lahe tumahari sarana Tuma rakshak kahu ko darna Translation: All happiness is attained by taking refuge in you. When you are the protector, what is there to fear? 23. आपन तेज सम्हारो आपै। तीनों लोक हांक तें कांपे॥ Aapan tej samharo aapai Teeno loka hank te kanpai Translation: You control your immense power, and even the three worlds tremble at your roar. 24. भूत पिशाच निकट नहिं आवै। महावीर जब नाम सुनावै॥ Bhoot pisacha nikat nahnee aavai Mahavir jaba naam sunaavai Translation: Ghosts and evil spirits do not come near when they hear the name of Mahavir (Hanuman). 25. नासै रोग हरै सब पीरा। जपत निरंतर हनुमत बीरा॥ Nase rog harai sab peera Japat nirantar Hanumat beera Translation: All diseases are eradicated, and all pain is relieved by the constant chanting of the name of the brave Hanuman. 26. संकट तें हनुमान छुड़ावै। मन क्रम वचन ध्यान जो लावै॥ Sankat te Hanuman chudavai Man kram bachan dhyaan jo lavai Translation: Hanuman frees those from difficulties who meditate on him with their mind, actions, and words. 27. सब पर राम तपस्वी राजा। तिन के काज सकल तुम साजा॥ Sub par Ram tapasvee raja Tin ke kaj sakal Tum saja Translation: Lord Rama, the ascetic king, is above all. And you (Hanuman) have fulfilled all his tasks. 28. और मनोरथ जो कोई लावै। सोइ अमित जीवन फल पावै॥ Aur manorath jo koi lavai Soi amita jeevan phal pavai Translation: Whoever brings their wishes to you, Hanuman receives limitless fruits of life. 29. चारों जुग परताप तुम्हारा। है परसिद्ध जगत उजियारा॥ Charaun jug partapa tumhara Hai persidha jagat ujiyaara Translation: Your glory is renowned in all four yugas (epochs), and your fame illuminates the entire world. 30. साधु संत के तुम रखवारे। असुर निकंदन राम दुलारे॥ Sadhu Sant ke tuma rakhaware Asura nikandan Ram dulaare Translation: You are the protector of saints and sages, the destroyer of demons, and the beloved of Lord Rama. 31. अष्ट सिद्धि नौ निधि के दाता। अस बर दीन जानकी माता॥ Ashta siddhi nav nidhi ke daata Us bar deen Janaki mata Translation: You are the grantor of the eight spiritual powers and the nine types of wealth, as blessed by Mother Sita. 32. राम रसायन तुम्हरे पासा। सदा रहो रघुपति के दासा॥ Ram rasayan tumahare pasaa Sada raho Raghupati ke dasaa Translation: You possess the elixir of devotion to Lord Rama, and you remain eternally his faithful servant. 33. तुम्हरे भजन राम को पावै। जनम जनम के दुख बिसरावै॥ Tumahare bhajan Ram ko pavai Janam janam ke dukha bisravai Translation: Through your worship, one can reach Lord Rama and be freed from the sorrows of many lifetimes. 34. अन्त काल रघुबर पुर जाई। जहाँ जन्म हरि भक्त कहाई॥ Anta kaal Raghuber pur jayee Jahan janma Hari-Bakhta kahayee Translation: At the end of life, the devotee will be taken to the abode of Lord Rama and will be reborn as a devotee of Hari (another name for Lord Vishnu). 35. और देवता चित्त न धरई। हनुमत सेइ सर्ब सुख करई॥ Aur devata Chita na dharahi Hanumath sehi sarv sukha karahi Translation: There is no need to focus on other deities when all happiness can be attained by worshipping Hanuman. 36. संकट कटै मिटै सब पीरा। जो सुमिरै हनुमत बलबीरा॥ Sankat kate mite sab peera Jo sumirai Hanumat balbeera Translation: All troubles and pains are removed for those who remember the mighty and brave Hanuman. 37. जय जय जय हनुमान गोसाईं। कृपा करहु गुरुदेव की नाईं॥ Jai Jai Jai Hanuman gosai Kripa karahu Gurudev ki nayi Translation: Victory, victory, victory to you, O Hanuman! Please bestow your grace upon us as our revered Guru. 38. जो सत बार पाठ कर कोई। छूटहि बंदि महा सुख होई॥ Jo sat bar path kar koi Chutehi bandhi maha sukh hoi Translation: Whoever recites this Hanuman Chalisa one hundred times will be freed from bondage and experience great happiness. 39. जो यह पढ़े हनुमान चालीसा। होय सिद्धि साखी गौरीसा॥ Jo yaha padhe Hanuman Chalisa Hoye siddhi sakhi Gaureesa Translation: Whoever reads this Hanuman Chalisa with devotion will attain perfection, and Lord Shiva himself is a witness to this. 40. तुलसीदास सदा हरि चेरा। कीजै नाथ हृदय महँ डेरा॥ Tulasidas sada Hari chera Keejai natha hirdaya maha dera Translation: Tulsidas, forever a servant of Lord Hari (Rama), prays, “O Lord, reside in my heart.” पवन तनय संकट हरन, मंगल मूरति रूप। राम लखन सीता सहित, हृदय बसहु सुर भूप॥ Pavantanaya sankata haran, Mangal murati roop. Ram Lakhan Sita sahita, Hirdaya basahu sur bhoop. Translation: O Son of the Wind, remover of sorrows, embodiment of auspiciousness, please reside in my heart along with Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita. |
The Significance of Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa
Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa is believed to offer numerous spiritual and emotional benefits. Here are some reasons why this hymn holds such a special place in the hearts of millions:
- Protection and Courage: Lord Hanuman is revered as the symbol of strength and fearlessness. Chanting the Hanuman Chalisa gives a sense of protection and courage to face life’s challenges head-on. The hymn acts as a shield, warding off negative energies and fears.
- Mental Peace and Focus: The rhythmic recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa has a calming effect on the mind. It helps devotees center their thoughts, focus on their goals, and attain mental clarity. In the fast-paced world we live in, this hymn offers a moment of pause, helping us reconnect with our inner selves.
- Overcoming Obstacles: It is also believed that regularly reciting the Hanuman Chalisa can help overcome personal and professional obstacles. Hanuman, who is often depicted as the remover of difficulties, is thought to help devotees navigate through tough times, offering solutions and guidance.
How to Incorporate Hanuman Chalisa into Daily Life?
You can recite it in the morning to start your day with a sense of purpose and protection, or in the evening to unwind and reflect on your day. You can chant it before starting on a new task or journey, seeking Hanuman’s blessings for success and safety.
If you’re new to the Hanuman Chalisa, don’t worry about memorizing it right away. Start by reading the verses slowly, understanding their meaning, and letting the words sink in. Over time, as you become more familiar with the hymn, you’ll find yourself reciting it effortlessly, and more importantly, feeling a deeper connection with Lord Hanuman.
Takeaway
The Hanuman Chalisa is not just a prayer; it’s a way of life. Its verses carry a profound message of faith, courage, and devotion that can guide us through life’s challenges. Whether you’re seeking protection, peace, or spiritual growth, the Hanuman Chalisa offers something for everyone.
So, the next time you find yourself in need of strength or solace, remember the Hanuman Chalisa. Recite it with an open heart, and let Lord Hanuman’s divine energy fill your life with positivity and resilience. It’s a timeless treasure that reminds us all of the power of devotion and the strength within.
