The story of Sita blessing Hanuman with immortality is a remarkable and touching episode found in the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana. It unfolds during a crucial moment in the epic, demonstrating Sita's unwavering faith in her husband, Lord Rama, and her recognition of Hanuman's devotion and courage.
Hanuman, the devoted servant of Lord Rama, embarked on a
perilous journey to find Sita, who had been abducted by the demon king Ravana.
His search led him across the vast ocean to the island kingdom of Lanka. Once
there, Hanuman eventually discovered Sita in the Ashoka Vatika, a beautiful
grove where she was being held captive.
Disguised as a tiny monkey, Hanuman observed the distressing
scene before him: Ravana trying to tempt Sita with promises of wealth and
power, and the rakshasis, female demons, tormenting her. Despite her dire
situation, Sita remained steadfast in her devotion to Rama, rejecting Ravana's
advances with unwavering resolve.
Hanuman knew he had to approach Sita carefully. He
contemplated how to reveal his identity without alarming her. If he declared
himself as Rama's messenger outright, it might not be enough to earn her trust.
He needed a subtle yet convincing way to communicate his purpose. Perched on a
tree, Hanuman decided to narrate the story of Rama aloud, hoping that the
mention of her beloved's name would catch Sita's attention.
As Hanuman recounted the adventures and virtues of Rama,
Sita's ears perked up. The familiarity of the tale and the mention of her
husband's name brought a glimmer of hope to her weary heart. She looked up and
saw the small monkey on the tree. Her initial suspicion led her to believe that
this might be another trick of Ravana's, a spy sent to deceive her.
Seeing her doubt, Hanuman folded his hands in a gesture of
respect and humility. Sita, cautious yet curious, addressed him, "I think
you are a spy of Ravana, sent to tempt me. If you are truly a messenger of
Rama, then from today you will become immortal. Weapons will not harm you. Fire
will not destroy you."
Moved by her words and her unwavering faith, Hanuman felt a
surge of divine energy. Sita's blessing was not just a testament to her belief
in him but also a recognition of his pure devotion and courage. Empowered by
her blessing, Hanuman's strength and resolve grew even stronger. He assured
Sita of Rama's love and determination to rescue her, giving her the much-needed
hope to endure her captivity.
Hanuman's encounter with Sita in the Ashoka Vatika became a
pivotal moment in the Ramayana. It highlighted the power of faith, the strength
of devotion, and the profound bond between Sita and Hanuman. With Sita's
blessing, Hanuman not only gained immortality but also solidified his role as
the epitome of unwavering loyalty and service to Lord Rama.
This story from the Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana continues to
inspire and resonate, reminding us of the extraordinary power of blessings and
the enduring strength of faith and devotion.