Sundara Kanda – The Glorious Chapter of Ramayana

 

Sundara Kanda is the fifth book of the Ramayana, and while other kandas primarily spotlight Lord Rama, this one reverently follows the heroic journey of Lord Hanuman.

• Begins with Hanuman’s leap across the ocean to Lanka
• Includes his encounters with Ravana, Maa Sita, and the burning of Lanka
• Ends with Hanuman delivering the message of Sita’s welfare to Rama

Because of its spiritual depth and beauty, it is aptly named “Sundara” (meaning beautiful). It is also known as Upasana Kanda, suitable for followers of Advaita, Dvaita, and Vishishtadvaita philosophies. The essence of this chapter reflects the Upanishadic truth: “Tat Tvam Asi” (Thou Art That).

Benefits of Chanting Sundara Kanda

Benefit	Impact
Removes negativity and obstacles	Opens path to spiritual and material success
Brings happiness and prosperity	Enhances mental clarity and emotional strength
Blesses unmarried individuals	Promotes marriage and family harmony
Wards off evil influences	Protects from psychic disturbances
Promotes good health	Boosts spiritual and physical well-being
Aids spiritual progress	Helps devotees advance on the path of bhakti

Recommended Time: Chant in the morning or evening, after bathing, with a pure heart and focused mind.

At the end of the Parayana, one must recite this sloka

Yatra yatra raghunatha keertanam  

Tatra tatra kruta mastkanjalim

Baashpa vaari paripoorna lochanam  

Marutim namata rakshasaantakam

Where ever or Whenever the praise of Lord Rama is sung, invariably Maruti, the destroyer of demons, appears there with folded hands and bowed head, with tears welling out of his eyes.