Line-by-Line Explanation of the Bajrang Baan: Understanding the Devotional Hymn to Hanuman

“Bajrang Baan” is a devotional hymn dedicated to Hanuman, a prominent deity in Hindu mythology known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and his immense strength and courage. The term “Bajrang” refers to Hanuman, symbolizing his mighty (bajrangi) nature, while “Baan” translates to “arrow,” metaphorically representing the focused, direct, and powerful nature of the hymn.

Origin and Composition

The Bajrang Baan is traditionally attributed to the poet Tulsidas, who is also known for his epic work, the “Ramcharitmanas.” Tulsidas composed several hymns in praise of Hanuman, including the well-known “Hanuman Chalisa.” The Bajrang Baan is written in Awadhi, a dialect of Hindi, and is composed of powerful verses meant to invoke Hanuman’s blessings and protection.

Structure and Content

The hymn consists of a series of couplets and quatrains that describe Hanuman’s virtues and powers, while also expressing the devotee’s plea for his help. It vividly describes Hanuman’s ability to destroy evil and protect his devotees from harm, emphasizing his swiftness, strength, and unwavering loyalty to Lord Rama.

Key Themes

Devotion to Rama: The hymn underscores Hanuman’s profound devotion to Lord Rama, highlighting his role in the Ramayana as a key ally in Rama’s quest to rescue Sita.
Protection and Strength: Devotees recite the Bajrang Baan seeking Hanuman’s protection from negative forces and his aid in overcoming obstacles. The hymn is believed to infuse courage and determination in the reciter.
Invocation of Power: The powerful language of the hymn serves as an invocation of Hanuman’s divine energy, calling upon him to intervene and provide assistance in times of distress.

Usage and Beliefs

Recitation: Devotees often recite the Bajrang Baan during times of personal crisis, fear, or when they feel threatened by negative influences. The intense, rhythmic nature of the hymn is thought to invoke Hanuman’s immediate presence and assistance.
Rituals: It is commonly recited during Hanuman Jayanti (the birth anniversary of Hanuman) and on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious days for worshipping Hanuman.
Belief in Immediate Help: Many believe that reciting the Bajrang Baan with faith and concentration can bring swift relief from troubles, as Hanuman is known for his quick response to his devotees’ prayers.

Notable Verses

Some notable lines from the Bajrang Baan include:

“Nasey rog harey sab peera, japat nirantar Hanumant beera” (Disease and pain vanish, by constantly chanting the name of the brave Hanuman).
“Sumiron pavansut pavan naam, apne bas kari rakhu” (I remember the Son of the Wind, Hanuman, and keep him in my control).

Line-by-Line Explanation of the Bajrang Baan: Understanding the Devotional Hymn to Hanuman

Opening Invocation

The hymn begins with an invocation, calling upon Hanuman’s divine energy.

दोहा निश्चय प्रेम प्रतीति ते, बिनय करै कर जोरि। तासो बन्धन काटि प्रभु, राखै प्रान कि लाज।Meaning: “With firm faith and devotion, if one prays with folded hands, The Lord will cut their bonds and preserve their honor.”Explanation: The devotee starts by expressing the importance of sincere devotion and prayer. With true faith and respect, the Lord (Hanuman) will free them from all difficulties and maintain their dignity.

Main Body

This section is a direct appeal to Hanuman, invoking his various attributes and asking for his help.

जो सतमठ के संग कीरति, सुनै सुमिरै हनुमान। तेहि के कारज सिध करिहै, गुरु हरि हरि हनुमान।Meaning: “Those who sing or hear the praises of Hanuman with true devotion, Will see their endeavors succeed, by the grace of the guru, Lord Hari (Vishnu), and Hanuman.”Explanation: Reciting or listening to Hanuman’s glories with devotion ensures the success of one’s tasks through the blessings of Hanuman, the guru, and Lord Vishnu.
हाथ लेहु सुमिरन करहु, राखो निज मन ध्यान। सकल विपत्ति हरहु हनुमान, राखिहु जीवन प्राण।Meaning: “Take up the remembrance of Hanuman in your heart, He will remove all obstacles and protect your life and soul.”Explanation: By meditating on Hanuman and keeping him in one’s thoughts, all troubles and dangers will be dispelled, and one’s life and well-being will be safeguarded.
हनु आशन पर आसन बैठो, सुनहु वीर हनुमान। अठारह भुजा दानव दलन, सूरदासन घोर।Meaning: “Hanuman, seated on a raised seat, hear my plea, With your eighteen arms, destroy the hordes of demons and terrifying enemies.”Explanation: The devotee visualizes Hanuman seated in a majestic posture and requests his intervention to annihilate all evil forces.
मारुति मारि द्रोण कुम्भकर्ण, सुनि सुग्रीव निवार। सुग्रीव प्रजा हंसे बधिक, संजनु रघुनाथ।Meaning: “O Maruti (Hanuman), who defeated Dron and Kumbhakarna, listen and save us, Bring joy to Sugriva’s people and honor to Lord Rama’s lineage.”Explanation: Recalling Hanuman’s heroic deeds from the Ramayana, the devotee asks for his protection and blessings, ensuring happiness and honor for Rama’s devotees.
जय जय जय हनुमान गोसाईं। कृपा करहु गुरुदेव की नाईं।Meaning: “Victory, victory, victory to Lord Hanuman! Please bestow your grace upon us like a true guru.”Explanation: The devotee praises Hanuman, seeking his grace and blessings akin to those of a revered guru.
सुनहु वीर हनुमान महाबल, जाओ, जय जय जय हनुमान। कृपा करहु गुरुदेव की नाईं।Meaning: “Hear me, mighty and valiant Hanuman, go forth, victory, victory, victory to Hanuman! Show your mercy, like a great guru.”Explanation: The devotee appeals to Hanuman’s might and valor, seeking his victorious intervention and merciful support.