Bajrang Baan: ( Part-1)
By Lokanath Mishra:
Bajrang Baan is a highly popular devotional song dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This famous song is often recited on occasions related to Lord Hanuman and shares a similar composition with the Hanuman Chalisa. The literal meaning of Bajrang Baan is “the arrow of Bajrang Bali” or Lord Hanuman. Reciting it is believed to free a person from fear, disease, and various life problems.
Bajrang Baan is considered particularly beneficial when recited on Sankranti, Purnima, Amavasya, Wednesday, and Saturday. The best way to recite it is to wake up early in the morning, take a bath, wear clean, simple clothes, and then wholeheartedly chant the mantra in front of a statue, idol, or picture of Hanuman. Offering fruits with Tulsi leaves as prasad (a devotional offering) is also a common practice.
The Bajrang Baan was written in the 16th century by the saint Tulsidas in the Awadhi dialect. Tulsidas is also the author of the renowned Hanuman Chalisa. Reciting the Bajrang Baan and Hanuman Chalisa together is considered to be especially powerful.
Bajrang Baan Practices in the USA
In the USA, the Bajrang Baan is recited in Hanuman temples with specific rituals and practices. These often involve a dedicated space, offerings, and a strong focus on Hanuman’s power and his devotion to Lord Rama. The mantra is typically recited after the Hanuman Chalisa, with devotees seeking Hanuman’s protection and guidance, especially during challenging times.
Practices:
Time and Place: Devotees often choose a clean and peaceful area, sometimes near a Hanuman idol or in a temple. The mantra is usually recited in the early morning or late evening, particularly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious for Hanuman worship.
Offerings: Before reciting, offerings like red flowers, sindoor (vermilion), and jaggery are commonly presented to Lord Hanuman.
Hanuman Chalisa: Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa before the Bajrang Baan is a common practice, as it is seen as a way to invoke Hanuman’s blessings and prepare for the more intense recitation of the Bajrang Baan.
Chanting: The Bajrang Baan is chanted with great focus and devotion. The devotee often visualizes Lord Hanuman and prays for his intervention in their specific problems.
Repetitions: The Bajrang Baan is typically recited 11, 21, or 108 times. The number is often determined by the devotee’s personal preference and the severity of the situation.
Intention and Faith: Recitation is performed with strong faith in Hanuman’s power to overcome obstacles and with a specific intention, whether it is for protection from enemies, healing, or other challenges.
Celibacy: Some devotees observe celibacy during the recitation period as part of their commitment to the practice.
Benefits of Recitation:
Protection: Bajrang Baan is believed to offer protection from negative forces, evil spirits, and black magic.
Overcoming Obstacles: It is seen as a powerful tool for overcoming challenges, removing obstacles, and achieving goals.
Seeking Hanuman’s Intervention: The mantra is a direct appeal to Hanuman, urging him to intervene and help the devotee overcome their difficulties, often by reminding him of his deep devotion to Lord Rama.