The Untold Story of Makardhwaj

Hi friends,

Today I am going to share a beautiful story of Hanuman’s son, Makardhwaj. As we all know Hanuman ji is the central figure of the epic Ramayana known for his loyalty and devotion to Lord Rama and Mata Sita.

But very few people know that he also had a son named Makardhwaj despite him being celibate. Let us find the interesting story of how Makardhwaj was born and how the fascinating journey that followed.

The Birth of Makardhwaj

The story begins during the epic battle in Lanka, where Hanuman plays a pivotal role in Lord Rama’s quest to rescue Sita from the clutches of the demon king, Ravana.

After setting Lanka ablaze with his fiery tail, Hanuman plunged into the ocean to extinguish the flames. In this moment of respite, a drop of his divine sweat fell into the ocean, and it was swallowed by a mystical sea creature(Fish) known as a “Makara.”

From this union, Makardhwaj was born. This half-monkey, half-fish being was unlike any other. Raised in the depths of the ocean, Makardhwaj’s upbringing was as mysterious as his conception.

His tale took a darker turn when he was discovered by Ahiravana, the demon king of the netherworld and brother of Ravana. Ahiravana, sensing the unique power within the child, took Makardhwaj under his wing, raising him as his own and training him to be a formidable warrior.

The Guardian of Patala

In the myriad versions of Hindu mythology, Makardhwaj is often depicted as a loyal gatekeeper of Patala, the netherworld. His loyalty, however, was not to his biological father but to Ahiravana, who had nurtured him.

Some tales even paint him as a fierce adversary of Rama and Hanuman, bound by his duty to protect the realms of the underworld.

One of the most captivating accounts of Makardhwaj’s role as a guardian comes from the Valmiki Ramayana. In this epic, Ahiravana cunningly captures Lord Rama and his brother Lakshmana, imprisoning them in the depths of hell.

To ensure they remained unreachable, Ahiravana placed Makardhwaj at the gates of the infernal realm, a test of both loyalty and strength.

Hanuman’s Descent into Hell

The rescue mission to save Lord Rama and Lakshmana from the clutches of Ahiravana stands as a testament to Hanuman’s unwavering devotion. Hanuman, ever the loyal servant, descended into the netherworld to confront whatever dangers lay ahead.

Upon reaching the gates of hell, he was met by Makardhwaj, a formidable opponent who bore a striking resemblance to himself.

A fierce battle ensued, with neither combatant willing to yield. Hanuman, puzzled by the uncanny resemblance and strength of his opponent, eventually overpowered Makardhwaj.

After his victory, Hanuman demanded to know the identity of the warrior who matched him so closely in battle.

The Revelation

Makardhwaj’s revelation was as surprising as it was poignant. He disclosed that he was Hanuman’s son, born from a drop of sweat that had mingled with the essence of the ocean.

The realization that he had a son, despite his vow of celibacy, left Hanuman momentarily stunned. Yet, in this moment of clarity, he saw the divine play of destiny and the intricate designs of the gods.

Impressed by Makardhwaj’s strength and loyalty, Hanuman acknowledged their bond. The two reconciled, and Makardhwaj, recognizing the greater cause, pledged his allegiance to Hanuman and agreed to help rescue Lord Rama and Lakshmana.

Legacy of Makardhwaj

The story of Makardhwaj adds a rich, complex layer to the lore of Hanuman. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of divine will and the extraordinary ways in which the universe operates.

Makardhwaj, born of a mystical union and raised by a demon king, ultimately found his true identity and purpose through the recognition of his father.

This tale is more than just an adventurous myth; it is a narrative that explores themes of identity, destiny, and the powerful bonds that transcend conventional relationships.

Hanuman’s journey to save Lord Rama and Lakshmana, aided by his unexpected progeny, underscores the timeless values of loyalty, strength, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

In the vast tapestry of Hindu mythology, the story of Makardhwaj and Hanuman reminds us that even the most steadfast vows and destinies can weave together in unexpected and wondrous ways, creating legends that inspire and resonate through the ages.

(Pic Courtesy: Google.com)

Categories: story

Tags: #Devotion, #Hanuman, #Makardhwaj, #Mythlogical Story, #Ramayana, featured, hinduism, India