Resonance with Divinity: Revering Hanumanji's Exemplary Servant-Leadership

By Anupama Vaidya.   

Saturdays at the temple hold a special place in my heart. The sight of fellow devotees lining up with oil bottles and tamra malas, offering prasad and seeking blessings with folded hands while reciting hymns, fills me with a deep sense of tranquillity and devotion. In that sacred space, where every gesture resonates a prayer, every face exudes serenity, every expression echoes adoration & every step an unwavering faith, I find my profound connection to Bajrangbali!

This connection is reinforced every morning, as I step into my car, and play Tulsidas’s Hanuman Chalisa. It is like centering myself with each verse and harmonising my thoughts & emotions. A protective energy  seems to envelope me as I listen to the soothing melodies and the powerful verses sung by Shankar Mahadevan in his deep voice. Serving as a spiritual anchor, reinforcing my inner peace, strength, courage and purpose, it prepares me to embark on my daily journey with a determination to make a difference, impact lives positively, and tackle whatever challenges the day may bring along.

Today, as we joyously celebrate the occasion of ‘Hanuman Jayanti’, my mind overflows with countless examples illustrating our unwavering faith in Hanumanji's transformative power and the profound impact of his devotion on our lives. On this sacred Chaitra Pournima, the full moon day of the first month in the Hindu calendar, we honour the divine avatar (incarnation) of Lord Shiva and seek blessings from the greatest devotee of Shree Ram (Lord Vishnu's incarnation) and serve us as a guiding light in our life’s journey, illuminating our path with wisdom and strength.

“I serve, I lead”, with eagerness and willingness, I embrace the role you’ve entrusted me; dedicating myself to live the purpose we’ve embarked on together.

I commit to accomplish my part with utmost dedication and diligence, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of our shared mission.
Beyond merely fulfilling the task, I strive to leave a legacy that extends far beyond a lifetime.

In the pantheon of Hindu Gods, Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesha are revered equally for their omnipotent powers. Yet, in the battle to fight against evil, Lord Shiva assumes a serving role under the incarnation of Lord Vishnu; while maintaining leadership even in this assumed role as Hanumanji.

Even in worship, Hanumanji stands tall as a symbol of unwavering courage and strength, depicted along with his mighty mace. Yet, in the presence of Lord Shree Ram, he assumes a humble posture at his feet.

Such a profound lesson of humility, service and adaptability, reminding us of “Servant-Leadership”, that true leadership transcends rank or position; it is about selflessly serving the greater good and leaving behind a legacy of virtue and inspiration.

Pause & reflect: 

Have I embraced “Servant-Leadership” and play the role to serve? Am I consumed by the notions of rank and hierarchy? For the given mission and purpose, am I ready to cede control to another, while leveraging my unique strengths and talents to contribute meaningfully to the greater good, just like Lord Shiva taking the form of Hanumanji? 

How do I repurpose and prioritize serving the collective purpose over individual ambition? Do I recognise the inherent value in assuming different roles, regardless of the perceived status, yet being revered for the work I do?

 

“I act, I confront”, with unwavering determination, I diligently prepare myself,
keeping a sharp presence of mind to navigate unforeseen circumstances.
Challenges are met head-on, without hesitation.
Adversities are deftly converted into opportunities for growth and success.
 
In the myriad examples of Hanumaji’s deeds, we witness his remarkable courage, ingenuity and unwavering determination to fulfil his role with utmost dedication, leaving no stone unturned to achieve the goal and go beyond.

Setting Lanka city ablaze when his tail was set on fire, showcases his remarkable presence of mind, courage, resourcefulness, adaptability and quick thinking. Without hesitation or waiting for instructions from Shree Rama or succumbing to confusion, he ingeniously turned an unexpected event into a strategic advantage as well brought in results beyond expectations.  

On the other hand, lifting an entire mountain, Gandhamadana to retrieve the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshamana’s life, exemplifies his resourcefulness and result-oriented mindset. When confused, he utilized his strengths to his advantage at the opportune moment. His steadfast commitment to the goal at hand and readiness to go above and beyond the call of duty underscored his unwavering dedication and determination.

Pause & reflect: 

Do I possess the resilience, courage, determination, adaptability and a presence of mind to turn adversity into opportunity? Am I actively emulating these qualities in my own life? Am I aware of my strengths?

How do I navigate unforeseen situations? Am I quick thinker with the necessary flexibility and ability to explore unconventional options?

What is my level of grit? Am I committed to the goals despite encountering obstacles? How do I manage fear and uncertainties when faced with unfamiliar situations?  

In challenging times, how do I strike a balance between taking decisive action and giving a thoughtful consideration?

“I observe, I empathise”, with humility and sensibility, I step into your shoes;
I see the world around through your eyes;
I carry out my work with the goal in mind, I keep ‘me’ out of my work;  
my wisdom lies in focussing on the task at hand rather than asserting my own identity.
 
In the Ashoka Vatika (grove), Hanumanji’s wisdom shines brightly as he disguises himself as a small monkey when approaching Sita. Sensing the delicate nature of the situation and the need to assess Sita’s condition and surroundings, he wisely refrains from revealing his true identity immediately. Hanumanji is depicted as displaying remarkable strategic thinking and discernment.

Aware of the potential to startle Sita with his true form, Hanuman chooses to observe quietly from afar, before assuming a humble form of a small monkey. Rather than acting impulsively, he evaluates the circumstances and chose the most appropriate course of action to achieve his ultimate goal – delivering hope and reassurance to Sita, fulfilling Lord Rama’s mission.

His actions exemplify that leadership is not only in bold actions but also in thoughtful consideration, compassionate understanding and careful planning. Rushing to reveal ourselves can sometime cause more harm than good. By taking the time to understand the situation and the needs of those around us, we can offer support and guidance more effectively.

Pause & reflect:

Am I observant, and apply myself in real time, while dealing with different situations? Am I able to strategize, apply a sound judgement and how do I keep on enhancing myself? How do I evaluate circumstances and choose the most appropriate course of action, considering both short-term and long-term implications?

How do I demonstrate humility, sensitivity, empathy and understanding of the situation in hand, especially in moments of uncertainty, conflict, and non-experienced matters? Am I cultivating compassionate understanding and empathy towards others?

How do I prioritize the goal at hand over my own identify or ego in my work and interactions? Do I rush to reveal my identity rather than addressing the goal in hand?

Even with mighty powers, Hanumanji humbly embraced the role of a devoted follower for the greater good and yet, making an impact through this choice leaving a leagacy behind. Lessons from Hanumanji can extend endlessly, much like the length of his revered tail. With each tale and instance from his life, we uncover profound insights and timeless wisdom that continue to guide us in out journeys. Just as Hanumanji's devotion, courage, and humility inspire generations, so do the lessons we glean from his remarkable deeds. 

This Hanuman Jayanti, as we pray to the almighty, let us we strive to emulate his virtues and embody his teachings; may we find strength, resilience, and purpose in every step we take. Like Hanumanji, may we navigate life's challenges with unwavering faith and unwavering determination, ever ready to serve, lead, act, confront, observe, empathise and inspire!

Wishing you a blessed Hanuman Jayanti!!!