Hanuman Chalisa Audio

The Hanuman Chalisa is a prayer that many young Hindus will at least have heard of, if not be familiar with. Chances are that it may be sung in your own home or by somebody that you know. This article explains the background to the Hanuman Chalisa and provides an insight into the many layers of meaning – mystical, ethical and devotional – contained in the prayer, by focusing on the first two verses of this (43 verse) prayer.
The Hanuman Chalisa was written by the famous 16th century sage, Goswami Tulsidas. Tulsidas lived at a time when Sanskrit learning was on the decline in India, and he rewrote the ancient Ramayana in the common dialect of the people, once again making the story of Rama and Sita accessible to the people.
Out of all the personalities in the Ramayana, Hanuman occupies a crucial position. He is the embodiment of auspiciousness, courage, devotion, eloquence, physical prowess and victory. It was only through Him that Sita and Rama could be reunited. Sita represents the Earth, the field, Mother Nature, creativity, abundance. Rama is the spiritual potential, which has been lost from creation. Hanuman represents the forces and teachings that can reunite the creation and spirit. It is through the lessons that we find in His character that the realm of divinity can transpire itself in our society.
The Hanuman Chalisa was written by Goswami Tulsidas to be a beautiful prayer and song, yet also to contain in itself the entire message of the life and character of Hanuman.

A Brief Insight into the Meaning of Verse 1

Shree Guru Charan Saroj Raj, Nij Man Mukur Sudhaari, Barnau Raghuvar Bimal Jasu, Jo dayaku Phal Chaari
With the dust of the Guru’s lotus feet, I first clean the mirror of my heart and then I narrate the glory of Shree Raghuvar, the giver of the 4 fold attainments of life

A Brief Insight into the Meaning of Verse 2

Buddhi heen Tannu Jaanike, Sumirow Pavan Kumar, Bal Buddi Vidya Dehu Mohi, Harahu Kalesh Bikaar
Knowing myself to be ignorant, I remember you, the Son of Pavan. O Lord! Bestow on me strength, wisdom and knowledge, and take away my miseries and vicious qualities