Is Lord Hanuman Still Alive? Exploring the Immortal Legend of the Divine Vanar

For centuries, the tales of Lord Hanuman have captivated the hearts of devotees and scholars alike. His unyielding devotion and divine powers have made him an immortal figure in Indian mythology. One fundamental question often surfaces: Is Lord Hanuman still alive? This article delves into the enigmatic existence of Lord Hanuman and the places where his timeless presence is believed to be felt.

Is It True That Hanuman Ji Is Still Alive in This Kaliyuga?

The belief that Lord Hanuman is alive today is rooted in the Indian philosophical concept of Chiranjeevi, meaning 'everliving.' According to Kaliyuga, the seventh of the four ages of humankind, Lord Hanuman received a boon that would allow him to live until the end of this age. This boon is a testament to his contributions and the divine essence that permeates his character.

The Myth of Chiranjeevi and Its Relevance in the Age of Kaliyuga

There are numerous references to Lord Hanuman from the Dwapar Yuga, where he played a pivotal role in the events leading up to the Mahabharata and assisting Bhagwan Krishna during the Kurukshetra War. Additionally, during the return of Lord Rama to his divine abode, Vaikunta, he was explicitly excluded from the group of being taken to the eternal bliss. This act of self-restriction was not a simple decision but a profound statement of his love for Rama's name and devotion.

Lord Rama himself blessed him, granting the boon that he could continue to live on Earth, enjoying the bliss of the Ramayana. This blessing transcends time, asserting that as long as the name of Lord Rama and the epic of Ramayana are celebrated, Lord Hanuman's legacy will endure.

The Mystery of Hanuman's Retreat and the Blessings He Bestows

According to the Mathang tribe in Sri Lanka, Lord Hanuman visits them every 41 years, blessing them with his presence. This tribe, believed to be descendants of Vibhishana, lives in isolation, cherishing the traditional ways and deeply immersed in devotional practices. Some of these traditions trace their origins to the time of Lord Hanuman, adding a layer of mystique to their beliefs.

Historical Context and Spiritual Significance

The Mathang tribe's beliefs are not mere fables but are entrenched in historical accounts. After Lord Rama's departure to the divine realm, Lord Hanuman, filled with sorrow and devotion, chose the dense forests of Sri Lanka as a place of continuous meditation and devotion. The Mathang people, living in the wilderness of the Piduru mountain range, serendipitously became the guardians of this great soul.

Through profound meditation, Lord Hanuman attained divine knowledge, becoming a beacon of spirituality for the Mathang people. As a reward, he granted them a boon that he would visit them every 41 years, guiding them on their spiritual journey and assisting them in their path to enlightenment. This tradition is believed to continue even today, with the next predicted visitation date being in 2055.

These stories underscore the enduring presence and impact of Lord Hanuman in our lives, transcending time and space, and embodying the eternal essence of devotion and spirituality.

References: Grab your copy of 'Hanuman's Boons: Tales of Devotion and Power.' Written by Aswin Singh.