How Strong Was Hanuman Compared to Other Characters from Ramayana and Mahabharata?

The answer to this intriguing question is found in the Uttarakanda of Valmiki's Ramayana, the final book containing both the climax and resolution of the epic. This section narrates a conversation between Rama and the sage Agastya Rishi about various aspects of the characters from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Specifically, Rama inquires about the strength of Hanuman, Ravana, and Vali.

Strength and Evolution of Hanuman's Power

Rama, being curious about Hanuman's strength, seeks the guidance of Agastya Rishi. The sage explains the unique origin of Hanuman, detailing his birth as an accident, his subsequent rebirth, and the acrobatic and mystical abilities (siddhis) he received. He emphasizes a crucial point: Hanuman's full power can only be accessed when he is inspired and reminded of his own capabilities.

A key element is the curse placed on Hanuman by Rishis from the Angira and another lineage due to his mischievous behavior in his childhood. This curse prevents Hanuman from fully accessing his divine powers unless prompted by others. It is noteworthy that Hanuman is believed to be the only Vanara equal to Deva Guru Brihaspati in terms of Chanda Shastra, a spiritual or occult knowledge area. This reveals the extent of Hanuman's non-human powers and his unique status among the Vanaras.

Vanaras as Anshas of Devas

Agastya Rishi further explains that all the Vanaras are incarnations (anshas) of various Devas who descended to assist Rama in his mission to defeat Ravana. This deeper understanding of the Vanaras' origins adds another layer to the complexity and divinity of the Ramayana.

Ashwamedha and Musings on Rama's Rule

After this insightful dialogue, Rama proceeds with an Ashwamedha Yajna (horse sacrifice) with the blessings of Agastya Rishi. The boy princes Lava and Kusha recite the Ramayana, completing the epic.

The Enduring Legacy of the Vanaras

Interestingly, towards the end of Uttarakanda, almost all the Vanaras, Kinnaras, and Rakshas who were loyal to Vibhishana, except for Hanuman, Jambavan, and another Vanara who appeared in Krishna's time, achieve moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth) by following Rama and the people of Ayodhya to Bramhaloka via the Sarasvati River.

This event is often overlooked, but it holds significant importance. It is overlooked partly due to the modern perspective that sees aspects of Rama that do not align with current personal values, such as his exile of Sita or the killing of a low-caste man engaged in ascetic practices. Additionally, Rama's rule, based on the Chaturvarnya system, is seen differently from the contemporary Republic of India, which follows the Constitution. Rama was a strict adherer to rules and the spirit of the law as per Manu's Dharmasutras.

For true devotees of Rama, understanding the nuances of this time period and the context is crucial. Despite the differences in societal structures, Rama maintained strict adherence to his duties as a king, following the rules and the spirit of the law. Similarly, modern citizens should learn from Rama to follow the Constitution of India in both letter and spirit.

This comparative analysis of Hanuman's strength with other characters in the Ramayana and Mahabharata not only sheds light on the unique nature of Hanuman but also provides an insight into the belief system and societal structures of ancient India.

Key Takeaways: Hanuman's unique abilities and the limitations tied to his childhood misdeeds. The Vanaras as incarnations of Devas to aid Rama in his mission. The enduring legacy of the Vanaras and their spiritual journey.