Sundara Kanda – Hanuman’s
Journey to Lanka
Among the seven Kandas of
the Ramayana, the Sundara Kanda holds a special place. While most
chapters focus on Lord Rama, Sundara Kanda uniquely centers on Lord Hanuman,
celebrating his courage, devotion, and strength. It begins with Hanuman’s
heroic leap across the ocean to Lanka and unfolds into a series of
extraordinary events that highlight his unmatched devotion to Rama.
Why It Is Called Sundara
Kanda
The word Sundara
means “beautiful.” This chapter is considered beautiful because:
- It narrates Hanuman’s heroic deeds
– leaping to Lanka, defeating Ravana’s army, and setting Lanka ablaze.
- It describes his compassionate
meeting with Maa Sita, bringing her Rama’s message of hope.
- It concludes with Hanuman returning
to Rama, reporting Sita’s plight, and strengthening Rama’s resolve.
Because of its uplifting
nature, it is also called Upasana Kanda, fitting into the philosophies
of Advaita, Dvaita, and Vishishtadvaita. Its essence is captured in the
Vedantic truth: “Tat Tvam Asi” (Thou art that).
Benefits of Reciting
Sundara Kanda
- Removes negativity and obstacles from
life.
- Bestows happiness, prosperity, and
spiritual advancement.
- Helps unmarried devotees find
suitable partners.
- Protects against evils and diseases,
ensuring good health.
- Listening or chanting brings peace of
mind and strengthens devotion.
It is traditionally
recited in the morning or evening for maximum spiritual benefit.
Concluding Sloka
At the end of Sundara
Kanda Parayana, devotees recite this famous verse:
Yatra yatra raghunatha
keertanam
Tatra tatra kruta
mastkanjalim
Baashpa vaari paripoorna
lochanam
Marutim namata
rakshasaantakam
Meaning:
Wherever the praises of Lord Rama are sung, there appears Hanuman, the
destroyer of demons, with folded hands, bowed head, and eyes filled with tears
of devotion.
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