Read the Hanuman Chalisa English Version: An Ode to Strength, Devotion, and Spiritual Power with explanation.
Hanuman Chalisa English with Explanation
In the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology and spirituality, the Hanuman Chalisa stands as a timeless masterpiece. Composed by the great saint Tulsidas, the Hanuman Chalisa is a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the epitome of strength, devotion, and unwavering loyalty. This sacred composition, written in the Awadhi language, consists of 40 verses that sing the praises of Hanuman and recount his incredible feats. In this blog, we will explore the essence of the Hanuman Chalisa in its English translation, delving into the profound meanings behind the verses.
“Shri Guru Charan Saroj Raj, Nij Man Mukur Sudhari,
Barnau Raghubar Bimal Jasu, Jo dayaku Phal Chari.”
“With the dust of Guru’s lotus feet, I clean the mirror of my mind, And then narrate the sacred glory of Sri Ram Chandra, the Supreme among the Raghus, which bestows the four fruits.”
“Buddhihin tanu janike sumirau pavan kumāra.
Bala buddhi bidyā dehu mohi harahu kalesa bikāra.”
“Considering myself ignorant, I meditate on you, O Hanuman, the son of the wind. Grant me strength, intelligence, and wisdom and remove all my afflictions and impurities.”
The above opening verse sets the tone for the entire Hanuman Chalisa. It begins with a humble invocation to the lotus feet of the spiritual teacher, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance and purity of mind before embarking on the divine journey. The mention of Sri Ram Chandra, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, highlights the central theme of devotion to the divine.
“Jai Hanuman Gyan Gun Sagar, Jai Kapis Tihun Lok Ujagar.”
“Hail Hanuman, the ocean of wisdom and virtue, the illuminator of the three worlds.”
These verses glorify Hanuman as the embodiment of divine knowledge and virtue. He is recognized as the vanquisher of evil forces and the dispeller of darkness. The reference to the three worlds signifies Hanuman’s universal significance as a symbol of strength, wisdom, and righteousness.
“Ram doot atulit bal dhama, Anjani-putra Pavan sut nama.”
“Mahavir Vikram Bajrangi, Kumati nivar sumati Ke sangi.”
“Hanuman, the messenger of Lord Rama, possesses immeasurable strength, The son of Anjana and the wind god, with a name that dispels the wind’s impurities. The mighty hero, the powerful one with a thunderbolt body, the remover of wrongdoings, the companion of the wise.”
These verses vividly describe Hanuman’s unparalleled strength, heroic deeds, and his role as Lord Rama’s loyal messenger. The mention of Hanuman as the son of Anjana and Pavan (wind god) reinforces his divine lineage and unique qualities.
“Kanchan varan viraj subesa, Kanan Kundal Kunchit Kesa”
“With a complexion as bright as gold and adorned with beautiful attire, Wearing earrings and having curly hair.”
This verse beautifully describes the physical appearance of Lord Hanuman. The use of the term “Kanchan varan” refers to his radiant golden complexion, symbolizing purity and divinity. “Viraj subesa” signifies his splendid and divine attire. The mention of “Kanan Kundal” highlights his adorned ears with earrings, and “Kunchit Kesa” emphasizes his curly hair.
The verse paints a vivid picture of Hanuman’s divine and majestic form, portraying him as a symbol of purity, strength, and divine grace.
“Hath Vajra Aur Dhwaja Viraje, Kaandhe moonj janeu saaje”
“With thunderbolt in hand and a flag in your grip, Your hair is curly, and sacred thread adorns your shoulder.”
In this verse, Hanuman’s physical attributes are vividly described. The mention of “Hath Vajra Aur Dhwaja Viraje” symbolizes Hanuman’s readiness for battle, with a thunderbolt in one hand, signifying his strength and power, and a flag in the other, representing his victory. The description of Hanuman’s curly hair and the sacred thread (janeu) on his shoulder reflects his disciplined and noble character. Overall, this verse depicts Hanuman as a valiant warrior, embodying both strength and virtue.
“Sankar suvan kesri Nandan, Tej prataap maha jag vandan”
“The son of Shiva and the delighter of Kesari, Your glory and might are praised by the entire world.”
In this verse, Hanuman is described as the son of Shiva (Sankar suvan) and Kesari (kesri Nandan). The verse highlights Hanuman’s divine lineage, being the offspring of Lord Shiva and Kesari, the monkey king. It acknowledges Hanuman’s immense strength, valor, and the admiration he receives from the entire world for his extraordinary qualities. The words “Tej prataap” emphasize his radiant energy and might, underscoring his significance and power.
“Vidyavaan guni ati chatur, Ram kaj karibe ko aatur”
“Endowed with knowledge, virtues, and great wisdom, Eager to perform the work of Lord Rama.”
This verse highlights Lord Hanuman’s intellectual and virtuous qualities. “Vidyavaan” refers to his knowledge, “guni” emphasizes his virtues, and “ati chatur” indicates his great wisdom and cleverness. The second line, “Ram kaj karibe ko aatur,” signifies Hanuman’s eagerness and enthusiasm to carry out the tasks assigned by Lord Rama.
The verse portrays Hanuman not only as a mighty warrior but also as a wise and virtuous devotee dedicated to fulfilling the divine mission of Lord Rama. His combination of strength, wisdom, and unwavering devotion makes him a central figure in the Ramayana and a revered symbol of loyalty and service.
“Prabhu charitra sunibe ko rasiya, Ram Lakhan Sita man Basiya”
“Devotedly listening to the story of the Lord, With Ram, Lakshman, and Sita residing in your heart.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of listening to the divine narrative of Lord Rama. “Prabhu charitra sunibe ko rasiya” suggests that Hanuman is a great connoisseur of Lord Rama’s story. He is portrayed as one who takes immense pleasure and devotion in hearing about the exploits and virtues of Lord Rama.
The second line, “Ram Lakhan Sita man Basiya,” expresses that Hanuman holds the images of Lord Rama, Lakshman, and Sita in his heart. This indicates the deep love and devotion Hanuman has for the divine trio—Lord Rama, his brother Lakshman, and his consort Sita. Hanuman’s heart is considered a sacred abode for the divine presence of these revered figures.
In essence, this verse underscores the significance of immersing oneself in the divine stories of Lord Rama and having a heart that is a dwelling place for devotion and love towards the divine.