Shree Hanuman Chalisa – Hariharan श्री हनुमान चालीसा
In the vibrant tapestry of Indian spiritual music, few compositions evoke as much reverence and devotion as the Shree Hanuman Chalisa. Written by the 16th-century poet Tulsidas in Awadhi language, this timeless hymn is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the epitome of devotion, strength, and loyalty in Hindu mythology. Over the centuries, it has transcended its religious origins to become a cherished cultural and musical treasure, captivating hearts with its profound lyrics and soul-stirring melodies.
Origins and Significance
The Shree Hanuman Chalisa comprises 40 verses (chalisa means “forty” in Hindi), each meticulously crafted to extol the virtues and exploits of Lord Hanuman. Tulsidas, a devout follower of Lord Rama, wrote this hymn as an invocation to Hanuman, seeking his blessings and protection. The verses are structured in a poetic meter that flows melodiously, making it not only a devotional piece but also a lyrical masterpiece.
Musical Renditions and Impact
One of the most renowned renditions of the Shree Hanuman Chalisa is by the legendary singer Hariharan, in collaboration with T-Series. This rendition, set to a serene melody composed by Lalit Sen and Chander, beautifully captures the essence of devotion and spirituality. The soulful voice of Hariharan, combined with the traditional instrumentation and orchestration, creates an ambiance that transports listeners into a realm of tranquility and reverence.
Gulshan Kumar, the founder of T-Series, played a pivotal role in popularizing this rendition through its release in full HD video format. The accompanying visuals often depict scenes from Hindu mythology, illustrating the heroic deeds of Hanuman and the divine grace of Lord Rama. Such visual interpretations not only enhance the listening experience but also deepen the emotional and spiritual connection with the hymn.
Cultural Reverence and Legacy
Beyond its musical prowess, the Shree Hanuman Chalisa holds immense cultural significance in India and among Hindu communities worldwide. It is recited fervently during religious ceremonies, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, considered auspicious days for worshiping Hanuman. The hymn is believed to invoke Hanuman’s blessings for strength, courage, and protection from evil forces.
In Indian households, the recitation of the Shree Hanuman Chalisa is a common practice, often performed during morning prayers or on special occasions like Hanuman Jayanti, the birthday of Lord Hanuman. Its verses are not just prayers but also philosophical reflections on the devotion, humility, and unwavering dedication exemplified by Hanuman.
Universal Appeal and Spiritual Essence
Despite being rooted in Hindu tradition, the Shree Hanuman Chalisa transcends religious boundaries with its universal themes of faith, devotion, and the triumph of good over evil. Its uplifting melody and profound lyrics have garnered admiration from listeners of diverse backgrounds, resonating with those seeking solace, strength, and spiritual guidance.
The enduring popularity of the Shree Hanuman Chalisa is a testament to its timeless appeal and the enduring power of devotional music to touch hearts and inspire minds. Whether listened to as a spiritual practice or appreciated for its artistic merit, this hymn continues to enrich lives and foster a sense of connection to the divine.
Conclusion
In essence, the Shree Hanuman Chalisa is more than just a song; it is a spiritual journey that invites listeners to delve into the depths of devotion and experience the transcendental beauty of Indian music and mythology. Through its enchanting verses and melodious renditions, it continues to be a beacon of hope and faith for millions, carrying forward the legacy of devotion to Lord Hanuman across generations.
As Hariharan’s voice resonates through the verses, accompanied by the visuals of divine grace, the Shree Hanuman Chalisa remains an ever-present reminder of the power of faith and the boundless love for the divine in the hearts of millions.
श्रीगुरु चरन सरोज रज, निज मनु मुकुरु सुधारि
बरनऊं रघुबर बिमल जसु, जो दायकु फल चारि
बुद्धिहीन तनु जानिके, सुमिरौं पवन कुमार
बल बुद्धि बिद्या देहु मोहिं, हरहु कलेस बिकार
जय हनुमान ज्ञान गुन सागर
जय कपीस तिहुं लोक उजागर
रामदूत अतुलित बल धामा
अंजनि-पुत्र पवनसुत नामा
महाबीर बिक्रम बजरंगी
कुमति निवार सुमति के संगी
कंचन बरन बिराज सुबेसा
कानन कुण्डल कुंचित केसा
हाथ बज्र औ ध्वजा बिराजै
कांधे मूँज जनेउ साजे
शंकर सुवन केसरीनंदन
तेज प्रताप महा जग वंदन
बिद्यावान गुनी अति चातुर
राम काज करिबे को आतुर
प्रभु चरित्र सुनिबे को रसिया
राम लखन सीता मन बसिया
सूक्ष्म रूप धरि सियहिं दिखावा
बिकट रूप धरि लंक जरावा
भीम रूप धरि असुर संहारे
रामचंद्र के काज संवारे
लाय सजीवन लखन जियाये
श्री रघुबीर हरषि उर लाये
रघुपति कीन्ही बहुत बड़ाई
तुम मम प्रिय भरतहि सम भाई
सहस बदन तुम्हरो जस गावैं
अस कहि श्रीपति कण्ठ लगावैं
सनकादिक ब्रह्मादि मुनीसा
नारद सारद सहित अहीसा
जम कुबेर दिगपाल जहाँ ते
कबि कोबिद कहि सके कहाँ ते
तुम उपकार सुग्रीवहिं कीन्हा
राम मिलाय राज पद दीन्हा
तुम्हरो मंत्र बिभीषन माना
लंकेश्वर भए सब जग जाना
जुग सहस्र जोजन पर भानु
लील्यो ताहि मधुर फल जानू
प्रभु मुद्रिका मेलि मुख माहीं
जलधि लांघि गये अचरज नाहीं
दुर्गम काज जगत के जेते
सुगम अनुग्रह तुम्हरे तेते
राम दुआरे तुम रखवारे
होत न आज्ञा बिनु पैसारे
सब सुख लहै तुम्हारी सरना
तुम रक्षक काहू को डर ना
आपन तेज सम्हारो आपै
तीनों लोक हांक तें कांपै
भूत पिसाच निकट नहिं आवै
महाबीर जब नाम सुनावै
नासै रोग हरे सब पीरा
जपत निरंतर हनुमत बीरा
संकट तें हनुमान छुड़ावै
मन क्रम बचन ध्यान जो लावै
सब पर राम तपस्वी राजा
तिन के काज सकल तुम साजा
और मनोरथ जो कोई लावै
सोई अमित जीवन फल पावै
चारों जुग परताप तुम्हारा
है परसिद्ध जगत उजियारा
साधु-संत के तुम रखवारे
असुर निकंदन राम दुलारे
अष्ट सिद्धि नौ निधि के दाता
अस बर दीन जानकी माता
राम रसायन तुम्हरे पासा
सदा रहो रघुपति के दासा
तुम्हरे भजन राम को पावै
जनम-जनम के दुख बिसरावै
अन्तकाल रघुबर पुर जाई
जहाँ जन्म हरिभक्त कहाई
और देवता चित्त न धरई
हनुमत सेइ सर्ब सुख करई
संकट कटै मिटै सब पीरा
जो सुमिरै हनुमत बलबीरा
जय जय जय हनुमान गोसाईं
कृपा करहु गुरुदेव की नाईं
जो सत बार पाठ कर कोई
छूटहि बंदि महा सुख होई
जो यह पढ़ै हनुमान चालीसा
होए सिद्धि साखी गौरीसा
तुलसीदास सदा हरि चेरा
कीजै नाथ हृदय मंह डेरा
कीजै नाथ हृदय मंह डेरा