What weapons did God Shiva give to Ram, Lakshman, Hanuman and Parshuram? How do they work while used in battles?

 1.Lord Ram had the Pashupatastra weapon of Lord Shiva. It is a celestial weapon which can be discharged by the mind, the eyes, words, or a bow. Pashupatastra is capable of destroying creation and vanquishing all beings. The power of the Pashupatastra was such that it was forbidden to be used against lesser enemies or lesser warriors. It is one of the six Mantramukta weapons that cannot be resisted. It was given to him by Sage Vishwamitra who received it directly from Lord Shiva.

As per the scriptures Lord Ram used Pashupatastra which carried the blessing of Lord Shiva against Lord Shiva after the Ashwamedha Yagna (that one who will use this weapon will never be defeated) as he was ordered by Lord Shiva himself.

(The aforesaid is not there in the Ramayan written by Sage Valmiki)

Arjun did years of rigorous penance and pleased by Arjun, Lord Shiva granted him an irresistible weapon Pashupatastra which he received directly from Lord Shiva as per Mahabharata Varna , Vana Parva, Chapter 3, but Arjun never used the said astra.

2. Lord Parshuram was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and after a long penance he received a Parshu (a weapon) from Lord Shiva as a boon thus the name Parshuram was given to him. Lord Shiva also taught him warfare.

Lord Parshuram killed all the male Kshatriyas on the earth 21 successive times with his Parshu. Lord Parshuram also clipped the thousand arms of Kartavirya Arjuna(Sahasrarjun), one by one, with his Parshu and killed him.

3. Lord Hanuman was blessed by Lord Shiva assuring him safety with a Kavaj (band) that would protect him for life. He also got the boon of longevity, scriptural wisdom from Lord Shiva.

4. Laxman used various weapons in his war with Meghnad( Ravan’s son). He used Varunaastra which Meghnaad failed. He used Sauryaastra to neutralize Meghnaad’s Aagneyastra . Then Lakshman had to use powerful weapon named Maheshwar astra to stop Meghnad’s asur weapon (Shoots a really fast fiery beam). Maheswar astra is the weapon of Lord Shiva.

Meghnad was eventually killed when Lakshman used Indrastra (An Astra of Lord Indra, It would bring about a 'shower' of arrows, like rain, from the sky).

Sadhana

What are some epic photos of Hanuman?

 1. Anjaneya

The son of Anjana.

2. Manojavaya

The one who is ever swift like the wind.

3. Shoora

The valorous one.

4. Sarvarogahara

The one who relieves all diseases.

5. Sarvaduhkhahara

The one who destroys all agonies.

6. Shanta

The calm and composed one.

7. Vajranakha

The one who has strong nails like Indra's vajra.

8. Surarchita

The one who is worshipped by the celestials.

9. Marutatmaja

The one who is adored with gems.

10. Mahakaya

The one who has a huge body.

11. Chiranjeevi

The eternal being.

12. Kanchanabha

The one who has a golden hued body.

13. Bajrangbali

The one who has strength of arms like Indra's vajra.

14. Panchamukhi

The one who has five faces.

15. Vagadheeksha

The lord of the spokesmen.

16. Yogin

The one who has traits of a saint.

17. Suchaye

The chaste one.

18. Shrimath

The revered one.

19. Mahadhyuta

The most radiant one.

20. Ramaduta

The ambassador of Lord Rama.

What is the story behind Lord Hanuman's mother Anjana?

 There are many mythological stories about Lord Hanuman's mother Anjana:

• According to one story, Anjana was naughty since childhood. Once when she went to play in the forest, a sage was doing penance there. Anjana plucked a fruit from the tree and threw it on the sage who was doing penance. This angered the sage and he told Anjana that if she behaves like a monkey, she will also get the form of a monkey.
• According to another story, Anjana was an Apsara in the court of Devraj Indra in her previous life. Her name was Punjikasthali. Once sage Durvasa was present in Indra's court. Then Punjikasthali behaved indecently with him. Angered by this, sage Durvasa cursed Punjikasthali to become a monkey.

Hanuman Ji, the son of Anjani and monkey king Kesari, is also known by names like Anjanay and Kesari Nandan. According to a belief, Hanuman Ji is also called the son of wind.

Who gave the boon of immortality to Hanuman ji?

 Hanuman ji was given the boon of immortality by Mata Sita. When Hanuman ji reached Lanka in search of Mata Sita, he met Mata Sita in Ashok Vatika. During this time, Mata Sita gave Hanuman ji the boon of immortality.

The story of Hanuman ji getting the boon of immortality:

• When Ravana kidnapped Mata Sita, Hanuman ji reached Lanka to help Lord Rama.
• After searching a lot in Lanka, when Mata Sita was not found, Hanuman ji thought her to be dead.
• Then he remembered Lord Rama and again started searching for Sita ji with full power.
• After this, he met Mata Sita in Ashok Vatika and Mata Sita gave him the boon of immortality.
• Mata Sita gave Hanuman ji this boon that he should always keep removing the troubles of all Ram devotees.

Some more boons received by Hanuman ji:

• Brahma gave Hanuman ji the boon of long life and not dying from Brahmastra.
• Vishwakarma had made them fearless with the weapons created by him.

The Birth Stories of Lord Ganesha, Kartikeya (Murugar), and Hanumanji in Hindu Mythology: A Detailed Analysis

Introduction

Hindu mythology is filled with rich narratives about divine births, each with its own unique purpose and cosmic significance. Among the most revered deities, Lord Ganesha, Kartikeya (also known as Murugar, Skanda, or Subramanya), and Hanumanji have distinct birth stories that highlight their divine missions. While all three are regarded as immensely powerful, their origins reflect different aspects of Dharma, devotion, and cosmic order. This analysis explores the differences in their birth stories, theological interpretations, and their significance in Hindu tradition.

1. The Birth Story of Lord Ganesha

A. Mythological Background

Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god, is the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. He is worshipped as the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta), the patron of wisdom, and the deity of auspicious beginnings. The most popular versions of his birth story highlight themes of devotion, power, and transformation.

B. The Most Popular Birth Story

• Creation by Parvati: According to the most widely accepted story from the Puranas, Goddess Parvati created Ganesha from the turmeric paste she used during her bath. She molded a human figure and infused it with life, assigning him the duty of guarding her chamber.
• Encounter with Shiva: When Lord Shiva returned and attempted to enter Parvati’s chamber, Ganesha, unaware of his identity, stopped him. Enraged, Shiva severed Ganesha’s head with his trident.
• Restoration with an Elephant’s Head: Upon Parvati’s grief and insistence, Shiva resurrected Ganesha by replacing his head with that of an elephant, thereby granting him divine wisdom and power.
• Boon of Worship: Shiva and Parvati blessed him, declaring that he would be worshipped first in all rituals and ceremonies.

C. Symbolism and Significance

• Elephant Head: Represents wisdom, intelligence, and memory.
• Guardianship: His role as Parvati’s guard symbolizes duty and loyalty.
• Rebirth and Transformation: Ganesha’s story highlights the idea that divine intervention and transformation lead to greater wisdom and power.

2. The Birth Story of Kartikeya (Murugar, Skanda, Subramanya)

A. Mythological Background

Kartikeya, also known as Murugar in Tamil traditions, is the god of war and commander of the celestial armies. His birth is directly linked to the defeat of the demon Tarakasura, who had become invincible due to a boon that he could only be killed by Shiva’s son.

B. The Birth Story

• Divine Spark from Shiva: After intense penance, Lord Shiva released his divine energy, which took the form of six fiery sparks.
• Nurtured by the Six Krittika Stars: These sparks fell into the sacred lake Saravana and were nurtured by six celestial nymphs (Krittikas), leading to the emergence of six individual babies.
• Union into One Being: Goddess Parvati lovingly embraced all six babies, merging them into a single form with six heads (Shanmukha or Arumugam in Tamil traditions).
• Defeat of Tarakasura: Once he attained youth, Kartikeya was given command of the divine armies and led them to victory over Tarakasura, fulfilling the prophecy.

C. Symbolism and Significance

• Six Heads: Represent six virtues—valor, wisdom, strength, patience, fame, and prosperity.
• Divine Warrior: As the commander of the celestial forces, he embodies strength, courage, and righteousness.
• Union of Shiva and Parvati: His birth highlights the combined divine energies needed to restore cosmic order.

3. The Birth Story of Hanumanji

A. Mythological Background

Hanumanji, one of the greatest devotees of Lord Rama, is an incarnation of Shiva and the son of the wind god, Vayu. His birth is associated with unwavering devotion, immense strength, and divine service.

B. The Birth Story

• Blessing from Shiva: Lord Shiva, wishing to serve Lord Vishnu in his Rama avatar, decided to be born as Hanuman.
• Divine Conception: Anjana, an apsara cursed to be born as a Vanara (monkey), prayed for a child. Pleased with her devotion, Vayu (the wind god) delivered divine prasad from Shiva, leading to Hanuman’s birth.
• Strength and Playfulness: As a child, Hanuman displayed incredible strength and once mistook the sun for a fruit, attempting to grab it. Indra struck him with his vajra (thunderbolt), which left a permanent mark on his chin but also granted him divine boons from various gods.
• Devotion to Rama: Later, upon encountering Lord Rama, Hanuman pledged his eternal service and became the epitome of Bhakti (devotion).

C. Symbolism and Significance

• Embodiment of Bhakti: Hanuman represents selfless devotion and surrender to the divine.
• Supernatural Strength: His divine lineage makes him one of the most powerful beings in Hindu mythology.
• Intelligence and Wisdom: Despite being a warrior, Hanuman is also associated with knowledge and intellect.

4. Comparative Analysis of Their Birth Stories

Aspect

Lord Ganesha

Kartikeya (Murugar)

Hanumanji

Parents

Parvati (creation), later accepted by Shiva

Born from Shiva’s divine sparks, nurtured by Krittikas, son of Parvati

Anjana (mother), divine intervention of Vayu and Shiva

Purpose of Birth

To remove obstacles, bestow wisdom

To defeat Tarakasura and restore cosmic order

To serve Lord Rama and exemplify devotion

Symbolism

Intelligence, transformation, leadership

Warrior spirit, cosmic balance

Strength, devotion, and divine service

Divine Connection

Blessings from Shiva and Parvati

Created from Shiva’s energy, nurtured by celestial mothers

Incarnation of Shiva, son of Vayu

Mythological Role

First deity to be worshipped in all rituals

Supreme commander of divine forces

Unparalleled devotee of Rama, protector of Dharma

5. Theological Interpretations and Philosophical Meanings

A. Ganesha: The Cosmic Gatekeeper

Ganesha represents the principle of removing ignorance and obstacles in spiritual and material pursuits. His birth story emphasizes that wisdom is born out of struggle and transformation.

B. Kartikeya: The Divine Warrior

Kartikeya’s birth highlights the necessity of divine intervention in times of crisis. His story reinforces the importance of discipline, courage, and strategic thinking in overcoming challenges.

C. Hanuman: The Ultimate Devotee

Hanuman’s birth signifies selfless service and devotion to a higher cause. His unwavering dedication to Lord Rama makes him the ideal symbol of Bhakti Yoga.

Conclusion

While Lord Ganesha, Kartikeya, and Hanumanji have different origins, their birth stories share common themes of divine purpose, transformation, and duty. Ganesha is the remover of obstacles, Kartikeya is the warrior who restores order, and Hanuman is the embodiment of devotion and strength. Each deity’s unique characteristics offer valuable lessons to devotees, guiding them toward wisdom, discipline, and unwavering faith in the divine. Their stories continue to inspire millions, reinforcing the timeless values of Hindu philosophy and spirituality.

Did Ravana ever capture Hanuman?

Yes. But Hanuman got captured on will, wanting to see who Ravana was. Hanuman was extremely intelligent and knew well that just knowing the map of Lanka was not sufficient; knowing the prowess of your enemy is necessary, too.

Hanuman was strong enough to defeat everyone in Lanka; however, when Indrajit took him captive by discharging a missile presided by Brahma, he submitted to it with respect to Brahma (the grandfather of the entire creation).

Moreover, he considered it an excellent opportunity to learn about Ravana and have a talk with him.

Reflecting on the potency of the missile, the grace of Brahma enjoyed by him and pondering his capacity to undo it, Hanuman submitted to the ordinance of Brahma. He said to himself, “No fear is experienced by me even though I stand bound by means of a missile, protected as I am by Brahma and Indra as well as by the wind god. I discern a great advantage, viz, the opportunity of a talk with Ravana, following my capture at the hands of the ogres. Therefore, let my enemies seize me”.

Canto 48 - Sundara Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana

When Hanuman is brought in front of Ravana, both beheld each other and Hanuman declares he is the messenger who has arrived at Lanka under the command of Sugriva. Hanuman was wonderstruck by Ravana’s extraordinary splendor and his magnificence; he thought in his mind that had the ogre not been evil, he could have even ruled Heaven.

Dazzled by his magnificence on seeing Ravana shining brightly, Hanuman thought in his mind as follows: “What charm, what presence of mind, what courage, what splendor and what combination of all auspicious bodily marks is present in the king of ogres! Had his mighty lord of ogres not been antagonistic to virtue, he would have proved to be a protector of the realm of gods, including Indra. Due to his cruel and ruthless deeds condemned by the world, all people, including gods and demons, remain actually afraid of him.”

Canto 48 - Sundara Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana

Later on, being questioned, Hanuman narrates all his activities on entering Lanka, from destroying the grove to being held captive by Indrajit. He mentions he is the messenger of Shri Ram and states that even though he had the power to get free from the missile presided by Brahma, he submitted because he wanted to see Ravana face to face.

He also warns Ravana that he should send Sita back to Shri Ram if he wishes to survive. If not, then he must start preparing for the worst and his destruction.

“Even though I am undoubtedly capable of destroying Lanka with its horses, chariots and elephants single-handed, such is, however, not the resolve of Shri Ram. Indeed, in the presence of hordes of monkeys and bears, the extermination of his enemies by whom Sita was actually laid violent hands upon was vowed by Shri Ram. Assuredly, doing wrong to Shri Ram, not even Indra himself can attain happiness, much less an ordinary individual like you. Know her whom you recognize by the name of Sita and who stays in your abode to be none else than kalaratri, bent upon destroying the whole of Lanka. Therefore, have done with the noose of death in the form of Sita’s personality, which has been placed by yourself about your neck. And let the means of your own safety be devised. Behold this city of Lanka, which has already been consumed by the moral power of Sita and set on fire by the wrath of Shri Ram, burning with its palaces and streets. Pray don’t lead to annihilation of your own allies…… and Lanka itself. Listen, O suzerain lord of ogres, to my truthful assertion, coming as it is from the lips of a servant of Shri Ram, an envoy and particularly a monkey.

Canto 51 - Sundara Kanda, Valmiki Ramayana

After this, enraged by Hanuman’s words, Ravana tries to kill the envoy. On being forbidden of such an act, which is against Shastras, Hanuman’s tail is lit, which he uses to set the entire Lanka on fire.

Thus, yes Hanuman was held captive by Ravana, but it was under his own wish because he wanted to know about Ravana and learn about his strength as well as warn him of his actions.

Is it true that Hanuman once ate the Sun?

 Yes, it is believed that Hanuman ji once ate the Sun. This story is found in 'Valmiki Ramayana' and other Puranas. In this story, the amazing powers of Hanuman ji in childhood have been described.

The story of Hanuman ji swallowing the Sun:

• Once Hanuman ji felt very hungry.
• He mistook the Sun shining in the sky as a red fruit.
• He flew into the sky to eat the Sun.
• Due to his divine power, he moved rapidly towards the Sun and tried to swallow it.
• This caused darkness in the entire universe.
• This story is understood from the mythological point of view.