Once Hanuman went in search of Rama and Lakshmana in the netherworld, he faced numerous challenges and obstacles. Using his immense strength and divine powers, he fought his way through until he reached the palace of Mahiravana, the powerful demon king who had captured Rama and Lakshmana with the intention of sacrificing them.
Upon entering the palace, Hanuman found Rama and Lakshmana
bound and guarded heavily. Despite the urgency of the situation, Hanuman knew
he needed a precise plan to rescue them and defeat Mahiravana. He decided to
seek guidance from the wise and powerful Goddess Mahamaya, who was revered in
the netherworld for her wisdom and divine insight.
Transforming himself into a tiny bee, Hanuman discreetly
flew to the temple where Goddess Mahamaya resided. As he buzzed around the
temple, he found the Goddess in deep meditation. With great respect and
humility, he addressed her, "O Divine Mother, Mahiravana has captured Rama
and Lakshmana and intends to sacrifice them to you. Is this truly your
desire?"
The Goddess, amused by Hanuman's clever disguise and direct
question, let out a gentle laugh. "No, Hanuman," she replied.
"Mahiravana's actions are not in alignment with my will. In fact, he has
brought Rama and Lakshmana here as instruments of his own doom. Mahiravana's
end is near, and it is destined to be at the hands of Rama."
Curious and eager to know more, Hanuman asked, "O
Mother, how can I aid in bringing about Mahiravana's demise and save Rama and
Lakshmana?"
The Goddess Mahamaya then revealed her plan, "When
Mahiravana brings Rama to my temple, he will demand that Rama bows before me as
part of the sacrificial ritual. At that moment, Rama should claim that he does
not know the proper way to perform the bow. Mahiravana, proud and
overconfident, will then demonstrate the act himself, laying prostrate before
me. Seize that moment, Hanuman. Take the sword that I will place in front of my
idol and use it to cut off Mahiravana's head. This land is now blessed with Rama's
presence, who is beloved by Lord Shiva. Go forth, Hanuman, and relay my
instructions to Rama."
With renewed determination and a clear plan in mind, Hanuman
transformed back into his original form and hurried to Rama. He conveyed the
Goddess's message, emphasizing the crucial moment when Mahiravana would expose
himself.
Rama, understanding the gravity of the situation and the
divine plan, agreed. "Hanuman, I will do as the Goddess has instructed.
Stay close by, and be ready for the moment Mahiravana reveals his
vulnerability."
Disguised once more as a bee, Hanuman kept himself
inconspicuous within the temple, ready to strike at the right moment. Soon,
Mahiravana arrived with Rama, ordering him to bow before the Goddess Mahamaya.
Following the plan, Rama expressed his ignorance about the proper way to
perform the bow.
Arrogantly, Mahiravana demonstrated the act, lying prostrate
before the idol of the Goddess. In that split second, Hanuman, with lightning
speed, took the sword placed by the Goddess and severed Mahiravana's head,
ending his reign of terror.
The death of Mahiravana liberated Rama and Lakshmana, and
they were able to return to the world above. Hanuman's cleverness, devotion,
and the divine guidance of Goddess Mahamaya ensured the victory of good over
evil once more.