Bajrangbali, Bajrang Baan, Pavanputra, or simply Hanuman. Indeed, Hanuman has many names. The love I feel for Hanuman is unknowable. This unconditional love for Hanuman started a long time ago... when I came into this world. His name was the first thing I heard after my mom gave birth to me (there were some complications and my mom's aunt asked Hanuman to save/protect me). Coincidentally, my father called me Andjenadebie (that's my full first name and my nickname is Andjena) and Hanuman's mother is called Anjana Devi. But is this really a coincidence?
Hanuman… who is that?
In Hinduism, Hanuman is depicted as a monkey who is powerful and courageous. Hanuman helps us with worries and stressful situations. Because Hanuman helps us through difficult times in life, he is also called Bajrang Baan (The Banisher of Grief). He protects us from evil influences and helps us maintain balance both physically and mentally.
Although Hanuman is characterized as a strong Deity, he is also known for his unconditional love. The unconditional love that Hanuman feels for Ram is described in the Ramayana (an extensive epic from India which, together with the Mahabharata, forms an important cultural cornerstone of Hinduism. Because of his unconditional love, Hanuman is always of service to Ram.
Hanuman has no expectations of those who worship Him. All he asks is that you worship Him out of love.
I used to have vegan meals for 40 days and recite Hanuman mantras in the morning. I lighted a diya (oil lamp) and incense, and I made offerings of flowers and bought water to the Deity’s shrine as an offering. Once in a while, I made persad (a sweet dish of mostly milk, flour, sugar) with tulsi (holy basil) to offer to Hanuman. At that time, I was searching in the spiritual field and I was not comfortable with myself physically or mentally. It is getting better and now I keep it very simple. For example, on Tuesdays and Saturdays I try to recite the Hanuman Chalisa and also the Bajrang Baan. I am vegan on these days and listen to his hymns. I truly believe that through the blessings and protection of Hanuman I can overcome obstacles.
My wish was to sing/read the Hanuman Chalisa 100 times, and I can finally say that I have accomplished this in 2020! It was a long Saturday morning/afternoon but I made it. What a joy I felt afterwards. I started around 4:45 am and finished around 4:30 pm, with some breaks to drink water and eat some fruit. I aim to do that at least a few more times in my life.
Thank you, Hanuman Ji, for all your kindness.
Jai Hanuman!
