Ever since we were kids, we know Hanuman ji as the ultimate symbol of devotion and strength. We know him as Bal Brahamachari and a dedicated devotee of Shree Ram. But have you ever heard stories about Hanuman ji having a son? It might sound surprising, but some versions of the Ramayana mention Makardhwaja as the son of our beloved Hanumanji. So, let’s explore the fascinating story of the “Son of Hanuman”!
Who is the Son of Hanuman?
Before we get over the story let’s just know who is the son of Hanuman. Well, as per Valmiki Ramayana, Hanumanji has a son who is Makardhwaja. He is a great warrior and the gatekeeper of the Patal Lok (netherworld). Moreover, various stories mention that Ahiravana, brother of Ravana raised him and assigned him to guard the doors of Patal Lok. However, there’s a very interesting story about it. So, let’s just get over it quickly.
Miraculous Birth of the Hanuman’s son – Makardhwaja
So, you know the story of Hanuman ji burning Lanka with his tail, right? Yes, when they were returning after burning Lanka, something unusual happened on the way. You already know that Ravana put Hanuman ji’s tail on fire. So, to extinguish that fire, Hanuman ji takes a dip in the ocean. Then finally the fire extinguishers. But, as Hanuman ji came out of the ocean a few drops of sweat fell into the ocean. Those small drops lead to a great miracle. Further, a “Makara” (mythical creature or a fish like hybrid reptile) swallowed those drops and got pregnant.
Ahiravana Finds the Son of Hanuman
Moreover, Makara was caught by the men of Ahiravana. They cut its stomach and found Makardhwajaa. A baby who resembles both a reptile and a monkey. They were amazed by his appearance, but they were unaware that he was the son of hanuman. So, as Makardhwaja grow up, Ahiravana was impressed by his unnatural abilities. Thus, he appointed him as the guard of Patal Lok (netherworld). But the twist comes when Hanuman meets Makardwaja.
Hanuman ji Fights with his own Son
So, what do you think would have happened when Hanuman encountered his own son? What will be the result if both fight each other? Let’s find out. During the battle with Ravana, once Ahiravana captured Shree Ram and Lakshman in Patal lok. Then Hanuman ji goes to Patal lok to rescue Shree Ram and Lakshman. However, Makardhwaja stops him in his attempt to rescue them. This is the first time Hanuman ji meets his son. Then, a devastating battle takes place between the father and the son. Eventually Hanuman ji defeats Makardhwaja.
Hanuman ji Came to Know of his son
After Hanuman ji defeats Makardhwaja in the battle, he was impressed by his strength. Hanuman ji was also amazed by his appearance, a combination of money and reptile. Moreover, he claims himself as the the ofspring of Hanuman, but Hanuman ji didn’t accept that. Because, he is a Bal Brahmachari and follows the path of Brahamacharya. However, then he hears his story and finally accepts it. Further, he encourages him to follow the path of dharma and worship Shree Ram.
Similarities between Hanuman and Makardhwaja
As you read in the story of Hanuman’s son Makardhwaj, he was born from the sweat of Hanumanji. But what are the similarities between them that prove that they are father and son. Well, like his father, Makardhwaj is also loyal to his master Ahiravan. Both of them have amazing strength and power. They also look alike, however, with Makardhwajas looking like both reptiles and monkeys. However, in Vedic culture giving birth to a child is seen as a divine union. The union of two energies that come together to give birth to a new energy that will have a purpose in life.
Story of Hanuman and “Makardhwaja”
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Hidden Meaning in the Story of Hanuman and His Son
Moreover, this story is not just about Hanumanji and his son, it has a much deeper meaning. This story of the son of Hanuman highlights the uniqueness of Vedic culture. For example, as you see, Makardhwaja was born by just a drop of sweat from Hanuman ji yet he possessed such great strength. Moreover, it also shows a unique twist of parenthood. As Hanuman ji, being a Brahmachari still accepts Makardhwaja as his son and teaches him the path of dharma. Thus, this story teaches us that you have to accept the truth, no matter what.
FAQs
If Hanuman ji is a Brahmachari (celibate devotee), then how can he have a son, Makardhwaja?
Some variations of Ramayana mentions that Makardhwaja was born of the sweat drop of Hanuman’s body. A drop of sweat from Hanumanji falling into the mouth of a creature called a Makara leads to the miraculous pregnancy.
Who is the son of Hanuman?
As mentioned in the Valmiki Ramayana, Makardhwaja is the son of Hanuman. He was raised by Ahiravana who later made him the gatekeeper of the Patal Lok.
What is the name of Hanuman’s Wife & son?
As per some different stories, Hanumanji, despite beinga brahmachari and devoted to Rama, accepted Suvarchala as his wife and gave birth to a son Makardhawaja.
