Śri Maha-ganapataye namah

We discussed that inspired by Sugriva’s praises, Hanuman assumed the form of a Brahmin boy and accosting the strangers he enquired, ‘Who are you dear sirs? To which region do you belong? You both appear to be sons of a sage but then, in your hands, you hold a bow. This too appears to be a penance. What roots and fruits do you eat, O sirs, for your bodies appear strong and extremely healthy? In our forests, such nutritious roots and fruits are not available’. Through these inquiries, Hanuman was trying to draw them into a conversation.

Often people who want to draw their neighbours into a conversation enquire, ‘Have you woken up?’ Instead of scowling at them at their obvious question, it would be apt to politely reply, ‘Yes. I woke up a little while ago.’ At times, neighbours enquire, ‘have you had your lunch?’ Remember that it is a casual inquiry aimed at greeting you. Do not scowl and retort angrily. Reply politely and move on.

In great amazement, the two strangers were listening to him. They were observing him smilingly but they refrained from offering any replies. Like statues they stood there watching him. Hanuman tried various ways to draw them into a conversation but his questions went unanswered.

Hanuman used his knowledge of all the branches of knowledge to extract information from them but remained unsuccessful. ‘They are keenly observing me. They are watchful of every word, every action and every facial expression of mine’- it slowly dawned upon Hanuman.

Hanuman understood that these strangers were cautiously studying his body movements and his facial expressions.

Jaya Guru Datta