The story of the birth of Hanuman, as found in the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana, is a fascinating blend of divine intervention, valor, and the fulfillment of a boon. Here's an expanded version of the story:
The Heroic Act of Kesari
In the sacred land of Prabhasa, renowned for its holy
pilgrimages, sages and rishis often gathered to perform their rituals and take
their sacred baths. However, their peace was frequently disrupted by a menacing
elephant. This elephant, with its mighty tusks, would trample and kill the
sages, causing widespread terror and hindering their religious practices.
Kesari, a mighty vanara (monkey) and the chieftain of his
tribe, learned about the plight of the sages. Known for his strength and
bravery, Kesari decided to confront the beast. In a fierce encounter, Kesari
fought the elephant barehanded, showcasing his incredible valor and strength.
Eventually, Kesari triumphed, killing the elephant and ending the sages'
torment.
The Boon from the Sages
The sages were immensely grateful for Kesari's heroic deed.
In their gratitude, they offered Kesari a boon, a reward for his bravery and
service. When asked to choose his boon, Kesari expressed his deepest desire: he
wished for a son who would be a paragon of strength, wisdom, and virtue, and
whose fame would transcend the three worlds (heaven, earth, and the
netherworld).
The sages, blessed with divine foresight, granted Kesari
this boon. They assured him that his wish would be fulfilled and that his son
would indeed be a great soul, revered across the universe.
Divine Intervention: The Role of Vayu
At the same time, Anjani, a celestial nymph who had taken
the form of a female vanara, was engaged in deep meditation and penance to Lord
Shiva, seeking a divine child. Lord Shiva, pleased with her devotion, decided
to bless her.
The god Vayu (the Wind God) played a crucial role in the
conception of this divine child. He acted as the divine intermediary. By the
will of Lord Shiva, Vayu carried the divine energy and placed it into Anjani's
womb. Thus, Hanuman was conceived with the combined blessings of Lord Shiva and
the boon granted to Kesari by the sages.
The Birth of Hanuman
Anjani gave birth to a son who was named Hanuman. From the
moment of his birth, Hanuman exhibited extraordinary abilities. He was strong,
intelligent, and possessed a fearless spirit. As he grew, his exploits and
adventures began to reflect the greatness foretold by the sages. Hanuman's
devotion to Lord Rama, his unwavering loyalty, and his incredible feats during
the events of the Ramayana became legendary.
Hanuman, the son of Kesari and Anjani, thus came into
existence through a unique confluence of divine blessings, the valor of his
father, and the grace of the wind god, Vayu. His story continues to inspire and
be celebrated in various texts and traditions, symbolizing devotion, strength,
and selfless service.
This expanded narrative captures the essence of Hanuman's
miraculous birth and the significant events leading to it, highlighting the
roles of Kesari, the sages, Anjani, and Vayu in bringing forth one of the most
revered figures in Hindu mythology.