Hanuman, in his relentless quest to rescue Lakshmana and Rama, discovered that they had been abducted by the demon king Mahiravana and taken to the netherworld via a secret tunnel. Determined to save them, Hanuman entered the tunnel and emerged in an extraordinary world. The sun shone brightly, casting a golden glow over everything. The sacred river Ganga flowed there in a mystical form known as Bhogavati, enhancing the surreal beauty of the place. Hanuman also encountered many revered sages, including the venerable sage Kapila.
As Hanuman ventured deeper, he spotted the magnificent palace of Mahiravana. Concealing his true form, he stealthily infiltrated the palace, his eyes scanning for any signs of Rama and Lakshmana. The palace was a sight to behold, filled with people of exceptional beauty and houses constructed from pure gold. Amidst his search, Hanuman climbed a tall tree situated by a serene lake, choosing this vantage point to observe his surroundings.
From his perch, Hanuman noticed several women approaching the lake, each carrying a pitcher to fetch water. Among them was a royal maid, whose demeanor suggested she was privy to palace secrets. The other women, curious and excited, inquired about the ongoing celebrations within the palace.
The maid, looking around cautiously, whispered, "I shall tell you, but ensure no one else hears. The king has captured two extraordinarily handsome young men. They are to be sacrificed to Mahamaya today."
Hanuman's heart raced upon hearing this grim news. Without wasting a moment, he swiftly descended from the tree and made his way into the heart of the palace. His sharp eyes fell upon a heavily guarded room, which he instinctively knew held his beloved Rama and Lakshmana.
Utilizing his divine powers, Hanuman transformed himself into a tiny bee. This form allowed him to slip past the guards undetected and enter the guarded room. Inside, he saw Rama and Lakshmana, bound and awaiting their grim fate.
This tale of Hanuman’s bravery and ingenuity is a cherished episode found in the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana, highlighting his unwavering devotion and cleverness in the face of daunting challenges.