In the epic saga of the Ramayana, there is a captivating episode where Rama fights the demon king Ravana while sitting on the shoulders of his devoted ally, Hanuman. This particular story, rich with valor and devotion, is narrated in the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana.
The Battlefield Encounter
After the fall of several of his formidable generals, Ravana himself decided to enter the fray. The battlefield was already a scene of chaos and destruction, with warriors clashing and the air thick with the sound of weapons. Ravana, riding a magnificent chariot, unleashed his fury upon the forces of Rama. His attacks were fierce and relentless, wounding key warriors like Sugriva, Nila, Hanuman, and Lakshmana.
Lakshmana's Injury and Rama's Resolve
During the fierce combat, Ravana managed to strike Lakshmana with a powerful spear, causing him to collapse. Seeing his beloved brother wounded, Rama's determination to confront Ravana intensified. It was at this critical juncture that Hanuman, ever the devoted servant and warrior, approached Rama with a suggestion.
"Ravana is riding a chariot, my lord," Hanuman said. "You need a chariot too. Climb on my back, and I will carry you into battle."
Rama Ascends Hanuman's Shoulders
Heeding Hanuman's wise counsel, Rama climbed onto Hanuman's shoulders. With Rama seated firmly, Hanuman's eyes burned with the fire of righteous fury and devotion. The sight of Rama on Hanuman's back was both awe-inspiring and terrifying for their enemies. It was a symbol of the unity and strength between the divine prince and his loyal devotee.
Ravana's Ruthless Strategy
Seeing Rama on Hanuman's shoulders, Ravana devised a cunning plan. He decided to target Hanuman, thinking that an injured Hanuman would hamper Rama's ability to fight. He unleashed a barrage of arrows aimed at Hanuman, hoping to bring him down.
Hanuman's Transformation
Faced with this onslaught, Hanuman found himself in a dilemma. He needed to protect himself to ensure Rama could continue the fight against Ravana. Drawing upon his extraordinary powers, Hanuman began to grow in size. His body expanded to colossal proportions, and his tail stretched to fifty yojanas (an ancient measure of distance). This transformation made it more difficult for Ravana's arrows to inflict serious harm.
The Clash of Titans
With Hanuman shielding him and providing a vantage point, Rama launched a counterattack. His arrows, imbued with divine energy, flew straight and true, striking Ravana with devastating impact. Under this relentless assault, Ravana momentarily lost consciousness. When he regained his senses, he was confronted by the imposing figure of Rama, ready to strike him down.
Rama's Mercy
Despite the opportunity to kill Ravana, Rama chose a different path. His voice rang out across the battlefield, calm yet commanding. "Go back, Ravana. I spare your life today."
Ravana's Defeat
To further humiliate Ravana and demonstrate his superior prowess, Rama aimed his arrows at the ten crowns adorning Ravana's ten heads. With precise shots, he severed each crown, sending them tumbling to the ground. Defeated and humiliated, Ravana ordered his charioteer to retreat and return to Lanka.
A Tale of Devotion and Bravery
This episode from the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana highlights the themes of bravery, loyalty, and divine justice. Hanuman's willingness to support and protect Rama, even at great personal risk, exemplifies the highest ideals of devotion and sacrifice. Rama's decision to spare Ravana's life, despite his heinous actions, reflects his innate sense of righteousness and mercy.
In this vivid and dramatic confrontation, the bond between Rama and Hanuman is celebrated, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil is underscored, leaving a lasting impression of the power of faith and righteousness.