Introduction
The “Bajrang Baan” is a powerful Hindu prayer composed by Tulsidas, a 16th-century poet-saint who is best known for writing the epic Ramcharitmanas. The “Bajrang Baan” is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god who is considered an ardent devotee of Lord Rama. The prayer is chanted to seek the blessings and protection of Lord Hanuman, who is believed to bestow strength, courage, and protection upon his devotees.
History and Significance
The “Bajrang Baan” derives its name from two words – “Bajrang,” which means thunderbolt, and “Baan,” which means arrow. Together, the prayer is known as the “Thunderbolt Arrow,” symbolizing the speed and force with which it is said to bring results in the spiritual and material realms.
The “Bajrang Baan” is often recited by devotees facing distress or seeking strength in challenging times. It is believed to protect one from evil forces, negative energies, and physical harm. Many devotees also chant the prayer to overcome obstacles, attain success in endeavors, and develop inner fortitude.
Lyrics of the Bajrang Baan
Below is the English translation of the “Bajrang Baan” to help readers understand the meaning and significance of each verse:
“`
Jai Hanuman gyan gun sagar
Jai Kapish tihun lok ujagar
All victory to you, O Hanuman, ocean of wisdom
All victory to you, O Lord of monkeys, illuminator of the three worlds
Ram doot atulit bal dhama
Anjani-putra Pavan sut nama
You are the messenger of Sri Ram, repository of immeasurable strength
The son of Anjani and the son of the wind god
Mahavir Vikram Bajrangi
Kumati nivar sumati ke sangi
You are the mighty hero, courageous and powerful
Dispeller of bad thoughts, companion of good sense
Kanchan varan viraj subesa
Kanan Kundal Kunchit Kesa
Your complexion is like gold, your attire is splendid
With ears adorned with gleaming earrings and curly locks of hair
Hath Vajra Aur Dhvaja Biraje
Kandhe moonj janeu saje
In your hand shines the thunderbolt and the flag
On your shoulder rests the sacred thread made of munja grass
Shankar suvan Kesari Nandan
Tej prataap mahajag vandan
You are the son of Lord Kesari, like Lord Shankar
Your radiance is great and acknowledged by the entire world
Vidyavan Guni Ati Chatur
Ram kaj karibe ko atur
You are knowledgeable, virtuous, extremely clever
Eager to fulfill every task of Lord Ram
Prabhu charitra sunibe ko rasiya
Ram Lakhan Sita man basiya
You are delighted to hear the tales of Lord Ram
Residing in the hearts of Ram, Lakshman, and Sita
Sukshma roop dhari Siyahin dikhava
Bikat roop dhari Lank jarava
You appeared in a diminutive form and were seen by Sita
You assumed a gigantic form and burnt Lanka
Bhima roop dhari Asur sanghare
Ramachandra ke kaj sanvare
You took on a ferocious form and destroyed the demons
You fulfilled all tasks assigned by Lord Ramachandra
Laaye Sanjeevan Lakhan Jiyaye
Shri Raghubir harashi ur laye
You brought the Sanjeevani herb to revive Lakshman
Bringing joy to Lord Ram and lighting up his heart
Raghupati Kinhi bahut badai
Tum mam priye Bharat-hi-sam bhai
Lord Ram praised you greatly
Saying, “You are as dear to me as my own brother Bharat”
Sahas badan tumharo yash gaave
Asa kahi Shripati kanth lagaave
The thousand-headed serpent sings your glory
Saying so, Lord Shiva warmly embraces you
Sankadik Brahmaadi Muneesa
Narad Sarad Sahit Aheesa
The holy sages like Sanak adore you
Narada, Saraswati, and the dread lord of death fear you
Yam Kuber Digpal Jahan te
Kavi kovid kahi sake kahan te
Yama, Kubera, and the guardians of the directions are all under your influence
Who can describe your splendor in its full extent?
Tum upkar Sugreevahin keenha
Ram milaye Rajpad deenha
You extended your help to Sugreev
You united him with Lord Ram and bestowed kingship upon him
Tumharo mantra Vibheeshan maana
Lankeshwar Bhaye Sab Jag jaana
Vibhishan heeded your counsel
Becoming the King of Lanka, known in all the worlds
Yuga sahasra yojan par Bhanu
Leelyo tahi madhur phal janu
You swallowed the sun, located millions of miles away
Believing it to be a sweet fruit
Prabhu mudrika Meli mukh maahi
Jaladhi langhi gaye achraj naahi
Holding the Lord’s ring in your mouth
You leapt across the ocean, no wonder
Durgam kaaj jagat ke jete
Sugam anugrah tumhre tete
All difficult tasks of the world are rendered easy
By your gracious blessings
Ram duaare tum rakhvare
Hoat na agya vinu paisare
You are the guardian at the door of Lord Ram
None can enter without your permission
Sabit sindhu naam tiharo
Sab kahu aankh karaas tiharo
With the mention of the name “Sindhu,”
Everyone bows in reverence to you
Jai jai jai Hanuman Gosai
Kripa Karahu Gurudev ki nahin
Victory, victory, victory to you, O Hanuman, Lord of senses
Bestow your grace without delay, O Guru-Dev!
Jo Sat bar path kar koi
Chhootahi bandi maha sukha hoi
One who recites this “Bajrang Baan” one hundred times
Will be released from bondage and receive great happiness
Jo yah padhe Hanuman Chalisa
Hoye siddhi saakhi gaurisa
One who recites the Hanuman Chalisa
Will attain success, as Lord Shiva is a witness
Tulsidas sada hari chera
Keejai Nath Hridaye mein dera
Tulsidas always remains the servant of Lord Hari
O Lord, make your abode in my heart
Pavan Tanay Sankat Haran
Mangal Murti Roop
O Son of the Wind, dispeller of distress
Embodiment of auspiciousness
Ram Lakhan Sita Sahit
Hrdaya Basahu Sur Bhoop
With Ram, Lakshman, and Sita
Reside in my heart, O King of Gods
“`
Conclusion
The “Bajrang Baan” is a potent prayer that is believed to protect devotees from harm, bestow strength and courage, and grant success in endeavors. By understanding the meaning and significance of each verse, devotees can chant the prayer with devotion and faith, seeking the benevolence of Lord Hanuman in their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the significance of chanting the Bajrang Baan?
Chanting the Bajrang Baan is believed to provide protection from negative energies, evil forces, and physical harm. It also bestows strength, courage, and success to the devotee.
2. How many times should one recite the Bajrang Baan for maximum benefit?
It is recommended to chant the Bajrang Baan at least once a day to experience its positive effects. Some devotees choose to recite it multiple times for added spiritual benefits.
3. Can women chant the Bajrang Baan?
Yes, women can chant the Bajrang Baan as there are no restrictions based on gender. It is a prayer that is open to all devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Hanuman.
4. Can the Bajrang Baan be chanted for specific intentions or desires?
Yes, devotees can chant the Bajrang Baan with specific intentions in mind, such as overcoming obstacles, seeking protection, or achieving success in endeavors. It is believed that sincere prayers are always heard by the divine.
5. Is there a specific time of day or a particular ritual to chant the Bajrang Baan?
While there is no strict rule regarding the timing or rituals for chanting the Bajrang Baan, many devotees prefer to recite it in the morning or evening for spiritual upliftment and protection throughout the day.
6. Can the Bajrang Baan be chanted in any language other than Sanskrit?
Yes, devotees can chant the Bajrang Baan in any language they are comfortable with. The most important aspect is to recite the prayer with devotion, sincerity, and understanding of its meaning.
7. Are there any specific gestures or postures to be followed while chanting the Bajrang Baan?
While there are no fixed gestures or postures required for chanting the Bajrang Baan, some devotees prefer to sit in a quiet place, light a diya (lamp), and offer flowers to Lord Hanuman while reciting the prayer for a more focused and devotional experience.
8. Can the Bajrang Baan be chanted for someone else’s well-being or protection?
Yes, devotees can chant the Bajrang Baan on behalf of someone else’s well-being, protection, or specific needs. It is believed that the power of sincere prayers can benefit not only the individual reciting them but also those for whom the prayers are offered.
9. Is it necessary to have a picture or idol of Lord Hanuman while chanting the Bajrang Baan?
While it is beneficial to have a visual representation of Lord Hanuman, such as a picture or idol, during the chanting of the Bajrang Baan, it is not mandatory. The most important aspect is to recite the prayer with faith, devotion, and a pure heart.
10. Can children chant the Bajrang Baan?
Yes, children can chant the Bajrang Baan with the guidance of elders or parents. It can be a wonderful way for children to develop a connection with Lord Hanuman, seek his blessings, and cultivate values of courage and devotion from a young age.
