The story of celestial nymph Swayamprabha took place when Hanuman and the Vanarasena (Monkey army) was searching for Sita. While searching for Sita, Hanuman and friends reached a desert. They did not find any food and water for several days. Matters got worse when some Vanaras fell down due to thirst. If they did not find water in another day many monkeys would die.
Hanuman then noticed birds with wet wings leaving a cave. Immediately, the Vanarasena ran into the cave and found a lake inside the cave. Fruit bearing trees grew in abundance on the banks of the lake. Vanaras refreshed themselves and took rest in the cave.
Hearing the commotion, a figure emerged from another area of the cave. It was the beautiful nymph Swamyaprabha. She was happy to see the Vanarasena.
Swayamprabha was cursed by Indra, the king of the Devas, to live a life of solitude for helping a nymph escape with her demon lover.
Swayamprabha did not want the Vanarasena to leave so she kept them entertained with dance, music and food. She created a magical world and the monkeys lost count of time. All the monkeys were enamored by her beauty and forgot about their mission.
Hanuman did not fall for Swayamprabha. He prepared to leave. Swayamprabha was desperate to stop Hanuman and she offered to marry him.
Hanuman was determined to find Mata Sita. He said he is leaving with or without his friends.
Swayamprabha was impressed by Hanuman’s determination and honesty and allowed the Vanarasena to leave. She also gave directions to Lanka, Ravana’s Kingdom.
For helping the Vanarasena, the nymph was relieved for her curse and she returned to heaven.