The battle between Hanuman and Indrajit is often referenced in the Kishkindha Kanda of the Ramayana. Did Indrajit truly defeat Hanuman, or did Hanuman feign defeat?
Hanuman, who was searching for Mata Sita, eventually discovered her in the Ashokavana in Lanka. After confirming her presence and conveying Lord Rama’s message, Hanuman proceeded to wreak havoc in Lanka. The Rakshasa army was deployed to capture him, but they were all slain. In this fierce battle, even Ravana’s son, Aksha, was killed by Hanuman.
Alarmed by these events, Ravana summoned his most powerful son, Indrajit. Hanuman’s extraordinary strength had baffled Ravana, prompting him to entrust Indrajit with the task of subduing the mighty Vanara.
Indrajit rushed to the vicinity of Ashokavana, where Hanuman was eagerly awaiting the next contingent of Rakshasas.
The battle between Hanuman and Indrajit was both thrilling and destructive. Indrajit became frustrated, as his arrows had no effect on Hanuman.
Finally, Indrajit invoked the Brahmastra, a celestial weapon, and decided to bind Hanuman with it.
Out of respect for Lord Brahma, Hanuman allowed himself to be bound by the Brahmastra. It is important to note that Hanuman had been granted a boon by Brahma himself — that no weapon on earth would be able to harm him.
Hanuman's submission was not out of weakness but of strategic intent. He deliberately allowed himself to be captured in order to gain an audience with Ravana. He wanted to directly communicate the power and righteousness of Lord Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva, and the Vanara Sena.
Thus, the great Hanuman allowed Indrajit to capture him — not as a sign of defeat, but as a calculated and purposeful act.
Symbolism and Deeper Meaning:
-
Hanuman’s Submission as Strategy, Not Surrender:
Hanuman’s choice to be captured is a symbol of divine wisdom and purpose-driven action. It represents the idea that true strength lies not only in physical power but also in restraint and foresight. Hanuman’s intent was diplomatic — he wanted to deliver a message to Ravana, not simply cause destruction. -
The Power of the Brahmastra and Divine Respect:
Even though Hanuman could not be harmed by any weapon, he respected the sanctity of the Brahmastra, acknowledging its spiritual power and its creator, Brahma. This shows Hanuman’s humility and reverence toward divine principles — a key trait of dharmic warriors. -
Indrajit vs. Hanuman – A Battle of Maya vs. Dharma:
Indrajit, known for his mastery over illusions (Maya) and celestial weapons, represents ego and reliance on power. Hanuman, on the other hand, stands for selfless devotion (bhakti), humility, and unwavering commitment to righteousness (dharma). The battle thus becomes a symbolic clash between egoistic power and spiritual strength. -
Hanuman as the Messenger of Rama:
Hanuman’s capture serves a deeper purpose — to act as a divine envoy. By being taken to Ravana, he sets in motion the moral warnings that Ravana ignores, ultimately leading to his downfall. Hanuman embodies the role of a cosmic catalyst. -
The Role of Divine Play (Leela):
Hanuman’s actions, though appearing submissive, are part of the grand narrative of divine play. His restraint and surrender are not defeat but part of a larger design to uphold cosmic order.