Assuming a subtle and gentle form, Hanuman appeared before Sita in her time of deepest sorrow, bringing her hope and comfort. Then, when the need arose, he took on a fierce and terrifying aspect, setting the city of Lanka ablaze with his blazing energy. In this formidable form, Hanuman destroyed the demons who opposed righteousness and accomplished the mighty tasks entrusted to him by Lord Rama. When Lakshmana fell unconscious on the battlefield, Hanuman soared to the heights of the Himalayas, brought back the life-restoring herb, and revived Lakshmana. Filled with joy, he returned to Sri Raghavira, Lord Rama himself. Rama was so moved by Hanuman’s devotion and service that he praised him greatly, declaring, “You are as dear to me as my own brother Bharata.” With love and gratitude, Rama embraced Hanuman, and even proclaimed that, though a thousand mouths might sing Hanuman’s glory, it would never be fully told. The greatest sages—Sanaka and his brothers, Brahma and the other seers, Narada the celestial sage, Sarasvati the goddess of wisdom, and even the serpent king—have all sought to speak of Hanuman’s greatness. Yet, even Yama the lord of death, Kubera the god of wealth, the guardians of the directions, and the most gifted poets and scholars cannot truly describe the full measure of Hanuman’s glory. Hanuman rendered invaluable service to Sugriva, the monkey king, bringing him to Rama and helping him regain his lost kingdom. He also gave wise counsel to Vibhishana, who, by following Hanuman’s advice, became the lord of Lanka—a story known throughout the world. As a child, Hanuman’s strength and playfulness were boundless: he mistook the sun, situated thousands of yojanas away, for a ripe fruit and swallowed it whole. Later, carrying Rama’s ring in his mouth, he leapt across the vast ocean to reach Lanka—a feat that seemed miraculous, yet was but a small matter for Hanuman. Through Hanuman’s grace, all difficult tasks in the world become easy. He stands as the guardian at Rama’s door, and none may enter without his permission. All happiness is found in seeking shelter with Hanuman; with him as protector, there is nothing to fear. By the radiance of his presence, all adversity is dispelled, and at the sound of his mighty roar, the three worlds tremble in awe. No ghosts or evil spirits dare approach when the name of this mighty hero is heard. For those who ceaselessly repeat the name of brave Hanuman, he destroys disease and removes all suffering. Anyone who contemplates Hanuman with mind, action, and speech is freed from distress by his compassionate grace. All the tasks of Rama, the ascetic king who rules over all, have been accomplished through Hanuman’s unwavering devotion. Whoever brings any wish before Hanuman receives boundless rewards in this life. His glory shines through all four ages, illuminating the world and bringing renown. Hanuman is ever the protector of the virtuous and the saints, the destroyer of demons, and the beloved of Lord Rama. He is the bestower of the eight spiritual powers and the nine treasures—a boon granted to him by Mother Janaki herself. Above all, Hanuman possesses the nectar of devotion to Rama and remains forever the devoted servant of the Lord of the Raghu dynasty. By singing Hanuman’s praises, one attains Rama and forgets the sorrows of countless lifetimes. At the end of life, such a devotee goes to the city of Rama, and in every birth thereafter is known as a devotee of Hari. The mind of such a devotee does not wander to other deities; Hanuman alone brings all happiness. For those who remember Hanuman, the mighty hero, he removes distress and ends all suffering. Victory, victory, victory to you, O Hanuman, Lord! Show your grace as the true Guru and divine master. Whoever recites these praises a hundred times is freed from bondage and attains great happiness. Lord Shiva himself is witness that whoever recites this Hanuman Chalisa will attain success. Tulsidas, the humble poet, declares himself always a servant of Lord Hari, and prays, “O Hanuman, please make your dwelling in my heart.” O Son of the Wind, remover of distress and embodiment of all that is auspicious, together with Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita—please reside forever in my heart, O Lord of the gods.