Hanuman, the mighty devotee of Lord Rama, had already wreaked havoc in Lanka, the stronghold of the demon king Ravana. He had destroyed large parts of the city and killed many demons, including Aksha, one of Ravana’s sons. However, after causing significant damage, he allowed himself to be captured by Indrajit, Ravana's powerful son, who used the formidable pasha weapon to bind him.
Although Hanuman possessed the strength to easily break free
from the weapon, he chose to remain bound. He saw this as an opportunity to
meet Ravana face-to-face and assess the situation in the enemy's camp.
Additionally, Hanuman decided to have some fun at the expense of the demons who
captured him.
The demons, thinking they had subdued Hanuman, started tying
his hands and feet. They attempted to drag him to Ravana’s court, but Hanuman
had other plans. He began to increase his weight gradually. The rakshasas
strained and struggled, unable to budge him even an inch. Hanuman, with a
mischievous glint in his eye, suggested that they announce his arrival with
fanfare and carry him on their shoulders.
The demons, bewildered and frustrated, had no choice but to
comply. They blew trumpets and other instruments to herald Hanuman’s arrival.
Then, several demons lifted him onto their shoulders, struggling under his
growing weight. The procession moved slowly towards Ravana's court, the air
filled with the sound of trumpets and the sight of Hanuman being carried like a
victorious king.
As they approached the doors of the grand court, Hanuman
once again increased his weight. The rakshasas, groaning under the strain,
could carry him no further and were forced to set him down. But Hanuman wasn’t
done with his tricks. He began to grow in size, becoming so large that he
towered over the door of the court, making it impossible for him to enter.
The demons, baffled and intimidated by Hanuman’s display of
power, hurried to inform Ravana of the situation. Ravana, angered by this
audacious monkey, commanded that the doors be broken to allow Hanuman entry.
Seven massive doors were shattered to make way for the enlarged Hanuman.
Once the doors were broken, Hanuman resumed his normal size
and walked into Ravana's court with confidence and grace. His dramatic
entrance, filled with both humor and strength, had not only showcased his power
but also his wit and intelligence. It set the stage for his meeting with
Ravana, where Hanuman would deliver Lord Rama’s message and assess the strength
and resolve of the enemy.
These incidents are narrated in the Bengali Krittibasi
Ramayana.