hanuman chalisa: a brief introduction to the most popular indian hymn
The Hanuman Chalisa is, without doubt, the most popular Hindu devotional hymn (stotra) not only in the land of India but around the world. It’s also one of the most powerful prayers and meditations of humanity. It is widely believed that chanting the Chalisa invokes Hanuman’s divine intervention amidst grave problems and challenges.
The Hanuman Chalisa was authored in the Awadhi language by Tulsidas, a poet-saint who lived in the 16th century and is his best-known text apart from the widely read Ramcharitmanas. The word “chalisa” is derived from “chalis,” which means the number forty in Hindi, as the Hanuman Chalisa has 40 verses (excluding couplets at the beginning and at the end of the hymn).
Hanuman is an ardent devotee of Ram and one of the central characters in the renowned Hindu epic, the Ramayana. According to the Hindu legend, Hanuman is considered an incarnation of Shiva, the hermit God. Numerous folk tales acclaim the virtues and supernatural powers of Hanuman. Recitation or chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa is a common spiritual practice among people all around India. Being the most popular hymn in praise of Hanuman, the Hanuman Chalisa is recited by millions of Hindus every day, both in good times and bad.
This work consists of forty-three verses – two introductory couplets (dohas), forty quatrains (chaupais), and one concluding couplet in the end.
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The aim of this book is to offer a renewed understanding of this beautiful, soul-enhancing hymn in the form of simple, concise, and easy-to-read meditations. Every meditation has been crafted to give you the essence of the message Tulsidas conveys in each verse of this sacred song.
No words can describe the bliss and joy a person feels when they read, recite, chant, sing and/or listen to Hanuman Chalisa on a daily basis. This book will enhance your experience and understanding of this amazing hymn, and serve you for years to come.
