Mahakatha
M 80% OFF
Hanuman Chalisa

Hanuman Chalisa

The Hanuman Chalisa is a 40-verse devotional hymn composed by Tulsidas in the 16th century, written in Awadhi-Hindi vernacular with Sanskrit roots. The opening doha (couplet) establishes the spiritual foundation: the poet cleanses the mirror of his mind with the dust of his guru's lotus feet, then narrates the immaculate glory of Rama—who grants the four fruits of life (dharma, artha, kama, moksha). Acknowledging his own ignorance, the poet seeks Hanuman's grace for strength, wisdom, and freedom from afflictions. Each subsequent verse celebrates Hanuman's divine attributes, courage, and role as Rama's eternal messenger.

Hanuman represents the pinnacle of bhakti (devotion), courage, and selfless service in Hindu spirituality. He is the bridge between the human and divine—monkey-born yet supremely enlightened, embodying humility despite incomparable strength. The Chalisa positions him as 'ocean of wisdom,' 'dispeller of evil thoughts,' and 'remover of obstacles.' In the Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidas portrays Hanuman as the ideal devotee: his mind rests eternally in Rama, his intellect serves Rama's purpose, and his body executes Rama's will. For practitioners, Hanuman exemplifies how surrendered action transcends ego and unlocks supernatural capability—a living gateway to shakti (power) and bhakti (grace) simultaneously.

Chant the Hanuman Chalisa with sincerity, preferably in the early morning (brahma muhurta) or during times of difficulty. Begin by bowing to your guru and Hanuman. Recite all 40 verses slowly, focusing on their meaning rather than speed. Many devotees practice it weekly on Tuesdays or Saturdays (auspicious for Hanuman). Even reciting a single verse with concentrated awareness yields benefit. The mantra works best when paired with intentional living—embodying Hanuman's virtues of courage, loyalty, and service. No special ritual is required; sincere repetition awakens the Hanuman consciousness within.

Curated by The Mahakatha Team · Original Composition: Mahakatha · Lyric: Tulsidas (16th century CE)

Hanuman Chalisa

Hanuman · Preview · 2:00

2:00
1

श्रीगुरु चरण सरोज राज, निजमन मुकुर सुधारि। बरनौ रघुवर विमल जसु, जो दायक फल चारि।। बुद्धिहीन तनु जानिके, सुमिरौ पवन-कुमार। बल बुद्धि बिद्या देहु मोहि, हरहु कलेस विकार।।

shriguru charana saroja raja, nijamana mukula sudhari baranau raghuvara vimala jasu, jo dayaka phala chari buddhihina tanu janike, sumirau pavana-kumara bala budhi bidya dehu mohi, harahu kalesa bikara


2

जय हनुमान ज्ञान गुण सागर। जय कपीस तिहु लोक उजागर।। राम दूत अतुलित बल धामा। अंजनि-पुत्र पवनसुत नामा।।

jaya hanumana gyana guna sagara jaya kapisa tihu loka ujagara rama duta atulita bala dhama anjani-putra pavanasuta nama


3

महाबीर विक्रम बजरंगी। कुमति निवार सुमति के संगी।। कंचन बरन बिराज सुवेसा। कानन कुंडल कुंचित केसा।।

mahabira bikrama bajarangi kumati nivara sumati ke sangi kanchana barana biraja suvesa kanana kundala kunchita kesa


4

हाथ बज्र अरु ध्वज विराजे। कंधे मुंज जनेऊ साजे।। शंकर सुवन केसरी नंदना। तेज प्रताप महा जग वंदना।।

hatha bajra aru dhvaja biraje kandhe munja janeu saje shankara suvana kesari nandana teja pratapa maha jaga vandana


5

विद्यावान गुणी अति चातुर। राम काज करिबे को आतुर।। प्रभु चरित्र सुनिवे को रसिया। राम लखन सीता मन बसिया।।

vidyavana guni ati chatura rama kaja karibe ko atura prabhu charitra sunive ko rasiya rama lakhana sita mana basiya


6

सूक्ष्म रूप धरि सियहि दिखावा। बिकट रूप धरि लंका जरावा।। भीम रूप धरि असुर संघारे। रामचंद्र के काज सँवारे।।

sukshma rupa dhari siyahi dikhava bikata rupa dhari lanka jarava bhima rupa dhari asura sanghare ramachandra ke kaja savare


7

लय सजीवन लखन जियाये। श्री रघुबीर हरषि उर लाये।। रघुपति किन्ही बहुत बडाई। तुम मम प्रिय भरतहि सम भाई।।

laya sajivana lakhana jiyaye shri raghubira harashi ura laye raghupati kinhi bahuta badai tum mama priya bharatahi sama bhai


8

सहस बदन तुम्हरो जस गावैं। अस कहि श्रीपति कंठ लगावैं।। सनकादिक ब्रह्मादि मुनीसा। नारद सारद सहित अहीसा।।

sahasa badana tumharo jasa gavai asa kahi shripati kantha lagavai sanakadika brahmadi munisa narada sarada sahita ahisa


9

जम कुबेर दिगपाल जहाँ ते। कवि कोविद कहि सकैं कहाँ ते।। तुम उपकार सुग्रीवहि कीन्हा। राम मिलाय राज पद दीन्हा।।

jama kubera digapala jahan te kavi kovida kahi sake kahan te tuma upakara sugrivahi kinha rama milaya raja pada dinha


10

तुम्हरो मंत्र विभीषन मना। लंकेश्वर भये सब जग जना।। जुग सहस्र जोजन पर भानु। लील्यो तहि मधुर फल जानु।।

tumharo mantra bibhishana mana lankeshvara bhaye saba jaga jana juga sahastra jojana para bhanu lilyo tahi madhura phala janu


11

प्रभु मुद्रिका मेलि मुख माही। जलधि लांघि गये अचरज नाहीं।। दुर्गम काज जगत के जेते। सुगम अनुग्रह तुम्हारे तेते।।

prabhu mudrika meli mukha mahi jaladhi langhi gaye acharaja nahi durgama kaja jagata ke jete sugama anugraha tumhare tete


12

राम दुआरे तुम रखवारे। होत न आज्ञा बिनु पैसारे।। सब सुख लहै तुम्हारी सरना। तुम रक्षक काहु को डरना।।

rama duare tuma rakhavare hota na ajna binu paisare saba sukha lahai tunhari sarana tuma rakshaka kahu ko dara na


13

अपना तेज समहारो अपै। तीनों लोक हाँक ते कापै।। भूत पिसाच निकट नहिं आवैं। महावीर जब नाम सुनावैं।।

apana teja samharo apai tino loka hanka te kapai bhuta pisacha nikata nahi avai mahavira jaba nama sunavai


14

नसै रोग हरे सब पीरा। जपत निरंतर हनुमत बीरा।। संकट ते हनुमान छुडावैं। मन क्रम बचन ध्यान जो लावैं।।

nasai roga hare saba pira japata nirantara hanumata bira sankata te hanumana chhudavai mana krama bachana dhyana jo lavai


15

सब पर राम तपस्वी राजा। तिन के काज सकल तुम साजा।। और मनोरथ जो कोई लावैं। सोई अमित जीवन फल पावैं।।

saba para rama tapasvi raja tina ke kaja sakala tuma saja aura manoratha jo koi lavai soi amita jivana phala pavai


16

चारो जुग परताप तुम्हारा। है प्रसिद्ध जगत उजियारा।। साधु संत के तुम रखवारे। असुर निकंदन राम दुलारे।।

charo juga paratap tumhara hai parasiddha jagata ujiyara sadhu santa ke tum rakhavare asura nikandana rama dulare


17

अष्टसिद्धि नौ निधि के दाता। अस बर दीन जानकी माता।। राम रसायन तुम्हारे पासा। सदा रहो रघुपति के दासा।।

ashtasiddhi nau nidhi ke data asa bara dina janaki mata rama rasayana tumhare pasa sada raho raghupati ke dasa


18

तुम्हारे भजन राम को पावैं। जनम जनम के दुःख बिसरावैं।। अंत काल रघुबर पुर जाई। जहाँ जनम हरिभक्त कहाई।।

tumhare bhajana rama ko pavai janama janama ke dukha bisaravai anta kala raghubara pura jai jahan janma haribhakta kahai


19

और देवता चित्त न धरैं। हनुमत सेई सर्व सुख करैं।। संकट कटै मिटै सब पीरा। जो सुमिरैं हनुमत बलबीरा।।

aura devata chitta na dharai hanumata sei sarba sukha karai sankata katai mitai saba pira jo sumirai hanumata balabira


20

जय जय जय हनुमान गोसाई। कृपा करहु गुरुदेव की नाई।। जो सत बार पाठ कर कोई। छूटहि बंदी महा सुख होई।।

jaya jaya jaya hanumana gosai kripa karahu gurudeva ki nai jo sata bara patha kara koi chhutahi bandi maha sukha hoi


21

जो यह पढै हनुमान चालीसा। होय सिद्धि साखी गौरीसा।। तुलसीदास सदा हरि चेरा। किजै नाथ हृदय महँ डेरा।।

jo yaha padhai hanumana chalisa hoya siddhi sakhi gaurisa tulasidasa sada hari chera kijai natha hridaya maham dera

Word-by-Word Meaning

Sanskrit Meaning
Tulsidas Hanuman Stotra Referring to the fact that it was composed by Tulsidas, who also wrote the Ramcharitmanas.
Hanuman Stotra A general term for hymns or praises dedicated to Hanuman, of which the *Hanuman Chalisa* is the most famous.
Chalisa of Hanuman A straightforward alternate name highlighting the structure of the prayer (forty verses).
Hanuman Ashtakshara Mantra Sometimes used to refer to the prayer, even though it specifically pertains to other mantras of Hanuman; it's sometimes used interchangeably in some regions.
Chaupai Ram Charit Manas Refers to a collection of verses from the Ramcharitmanas in which Hanuman is praised.

How to Chant Hanuman Chalisa

  1. 1

    Find a quiet, clean space

    Sit in a comfortable, undisturbed environment. Face east or north if possible. You may light incense or a candle to set a contemplative atmosphere.

  2. 2

    Settle into a comfortable posture

    Sit cross-legged on the floor or upright in a chair. Keep the spine erect and place the hands on the knees with palms facing upward.

  3. 3

    Take three cleansing breaths

    Inhale slowly through the nose, hold briefly, and exhale completely. Repeat three times to calm the mind and prepare for mantra recitation.

  4. 4

    Begin chanting Hanuman Chalisa

    Chant the mantra clearly and with devotion — aloud, in a whisper, or silently. Use a mala (108 beads) to count repetitions. Aim for a consistent, unhurried rhythm throughout the session.

  5. 5

    Rest in stillness

    After completing your chanting, sit quietly for two to five minutes. Allow the vibration of the mantra to settle within. Close the practice with a moment of gratitude.

Benefits of Hanuman Chalisa

  • Grants fearlessness and inner courage to face life's obstacles and challenges with equanimity.

    Source: Hanuman Chalisa verse 13-14; Traditional devotional practice

  • Removes negative mental patterns, obstacles, and destructive thoughts; protects the practitioner from harm.

    Source: Verse 2 (kumati nivara—dispeller of evil thoughts); Ramcharitmanas tradition

  • Strengthens mental clarity, intellectual focus, and wisdom needed for spiritual and worldly success.

    Source: Verse 1 (gyana guna sagara—ocean of wisdom); Verse 4 (vidyavana guni—learned and virtuous)

  • Cultivates unshakeable devotion (bhakti) and surrender, aligning the chanter's will with divine purpose.

    Source: Verse 16-17; Bhakti yoga tradition as taught in Bhagavad Gita 12.2

  • Heals trauma, emotional pain, and past suffering through repeated invocation of protective, healing energy.

    Source: Verse 18 (sankata katai—removes suffering); Traditional healing practice

  • Ensures swift resolution of problems and liberation from cycles of birth and death through sincere practice.

    Source: Verse 20 (chhutahi bandi—liberation from bondage); Verse 17 (janama janama ke dukha bisaravai)

Deity Hanuman
Composition Mahakatha (Original) · Tulsidas (16th century CE) (Lyric)
Also called Hanuman Chalisa · Hanuman Chaleesa · Hanuman Chalees · Hanuman Stotram · Hanuman Prayer · Hanuman Kavach · Anjaneya Chalisa
Hanuman also known as Anjaneya · Bajrangbali · Maruti · Pavanputra

Story & Symbolism

Tulsidas composed the Hanuman Chalisa in the 16th century as part of the Ramcharitmanas (1574–1577 CE), his magnum opus retelling the Ramayana in vernacular Awadhi. The Chalisa emerges in the narrative as a devotional hymn, praised within the text itself as a liberation-granting prayer. Tulsidas, a wandering ascetic and direct devotee of Hanuman, composed it after years of bhakti sadhana in Varanasi. Historical accounts suggest he received direct darshan (vision) of Hanuman multiple times, and the Chalisa crystallizes that mystical experience into 40 verses accessible to all castes and classes—revolutionary for 16th-century India. The work became central to North Indian Hindu devotion, memorized by millions, and transmitted through oral tradition, teachers, and eventually printed texts.

Hanuman himself represents the archetypal devotee in Hindu spirituality—embodying the principle that selfless service and unwavering love are the fastest pathways to liberation. In the original Ramayana (Valmiki), Hanuman is portrayed as Rama's perfect instrument: his mind serves only Rama, his intellect is devoted to Rama's purpose, his body executes Rama's will. The Chalisa elevates this further, positioning Hanuman as a cosmic force—not merely a monkey-deity, but the embodiment of shakti (divine power), bhakti (devotion), and jnana (wisdom) unified. Each verse is a meditation on a different facet of transcendent consciousness accessible through surrendered devotion. Tulsidas teaches that Hanuman-consciousness dissolves the ego-knot and reveals the eternal presence of Rama (the Self) within and without.

Today, the Hanuman Chalisa remains the most widely chanted mantra in Hindu tradition, recited daily in temples, homes, meditation centers, and by individuals worldwide. It has been translated into every major language and appears in countless YouTube versions, podcasts, and spiritual apps. What began as Tulsidas's personal devotional experience has become a collective healing and liberation tool for millions. Its durability across 500 years testifies to its spiritual potency—each generation discovers fresh meaning within the same verses, proving that true sacred texts are alive, responsive, and eternally relevant to human consciousness.

How to Use in Daily Life

🌅

Morning Sadhana

Chant the full Hanuman Chalisa upon waking, ideally between 4–6 AM. Begin with prostrations and a clear intention. This establishes divine protection and mental clarity for the entire day ahead.

🧘

Meditation Practice

Recite the Chalisa slowly during meditation, focusing deeply on each verse's meaning. Visualize Hanuman's golden form, his fearless courage, and his loving devotion to Rama. Let the words dissolve into silence.

🙏

Crisis & Challenge

When facing obstacles, illness, fear, or conflict, chant the Chalisa with sincere invocation. Repeat verse 13 (sankata te hanumana chhudavai—Hanuman removes all suffering) for immediate relief and clarity.

💤

Evening Reflection

Before sleep, chant the Chalisa or listen to a recording. This protects your consciousness during sleep, prevents nightmares, and invites Hanuman's blessing into your dreams and subconscious mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hanuman Chalisa?
The Hanuman Chalisa is a 40-verse devotional hymn (chalisa means 40 in Hindi) composed in Awadhi language by the saint-poet Tulsidas in the 16th century. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey deity revered in Hinduism as the epitome of courage, devotion, and loyalty. Each verse praises Hanuman's virtues, divine exploits, and unwavering dedication to Lord Rama. The text serves as both a prayer and a meditation tool, traditionally chanted by millions of devotees across India and the Hindu diaspora. The Hanuman Chalisa is part of the larger Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidas's epic retelling of the Ramayana. It stands as one of the most popular and accessible Sanskrit-based devotional texts, requiring no special initiation or ritual prerequisites to recite. The composition blends narrative storytelling with spiritual philosophy, making it accessible to devotees of all ages and backgrounds. Its rhythmic structure and lyrical quality make it memorable and easy to chant repeatedly. The Chalisa has become a cornerstone of Hindu devotional practice, recited in homes, temples, and during religious ceremonies throughout the year, particularly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are traditionally associated with Hanuman.
What are the benefits of chanting the Hanuman Chalisa?
According to Hindu tradition and devotional texts, chanting the Hanuman Chalisa is believed to bestow numerous spiritual and practical benefits. Devotees traditionally believe that regular recitation cultivates inner strength, courage, and mental clarity, qualities embodied by Hanuman himself. The practice is said to remove obstacles, dispel negative energies, and protect against adversity and fear. Many devotees report experiencing enhanced focus, emotional stability, and a deepened sense of purpose through consistent chanting. Spiritually, the Chalisa is believed to strengthen one's connection with the divine and foster unwavering faith and devotion. The text's meditation on Hanuman's qualities—loyalty, humility, and service—traditionally encourages practitioners to develop these virtues within themselves. Practitioners often experience a sense of peace and mental tranquility, as the rhythmic recitation can induce a meditative state. In Hindu tradition, it is also believed to invoke protection during challenging times and to aid in overcoming personal obstacles. The Chalisa is particularly recommended for those facing fear, anxiety, or spiritual stagnation. Many communities believe that chanting creates a positive energetic environment and brings blessings into one's home. While these benefits are traditionally ascribed in Hindu spiritual practice, individuals experience the mantra's effects through their own faith, intention, and consistent practice.
How should I chant the Hanuman Chalisa?
The Hanuman Chalisa can be chanted in various ways, allowing practitioners to choose an approach that fits their lifestyle and spiritual needs. For traditional practice, find a clean, quiet space facing east or north, sit in a comfortable meditation posture, and begin your recitation with reverence. Many devotees perform this practice early in the morning or during twilight hours, considered auspicious times. While there is no strict requirement to use prayer beads (mala), using a 108-bead mala can help maintain focus and count repetitions if chanting multiple rounds. Begin by invoking Hanuman with 'Om Namah Hanumante' and recite the 40 verses slowly and mindfully, either in Sanskrit or Awadhi, or in your preferred regional language translation. Pronunciation need not be perfect; sincere intention and devotion are traditionally considered more important than flawless recitation. You can chant once daily, or repeat the entire Chalisa multiple times in succession depending on your practice intensity. Many practitioners chant it 11 times, 40 times, or 108 times for specific intentions. Listening to recorded versions by renowned chanters can also serve as a form of practice. Consistency matters more than duration—daily chanting, even briefly, is traditionally considered more beneficial than occasional longer sessions. Some practitioners incorporate the Chalisa into their regular puja (worship ritual), while others recite it independently as a standalone devotional practice.
What is the history and origin of the Hanuman Chalisa?
The Hanuman Chalisa was composed by Tulsidas (1532-1623), a revered saint-poet of medieval India, during the Mughal era. Tulsidas is most famous for his monumental work, the Ramcharitmanas, an Awadhi-language retelling of the Sanskrit Ramayana that profoundly influenced Hindu devotional culture. The Hanuman Chalisa is believed to have been composed as part of this larger devotional project, specifically as a standalone hymn celebrating Hanuman's virtues and divine exploits. According to traditional accounts, Tulsidas composed the Chalisa with deep spiritual inspiration and devotion to both Hanuman and Lord Rama. The text reflects the bhakti (devotional) movement of medieval India, which emphasized personal devotion and emotional connection to the divine over ritualistic practices. The Chalisa's composition in Awadhi—the vernacular language of the region—rather than Sanskrit made it accessible to common people, democratizing spiritual practice. This accessibility contributed significantly to its widespread adoption and enduring popularity. Over the centuries, the Hanuman Chalisa has become embedded in Hindu cultural and spiritual practice, transmitted through oral tradition, temple recitation, and printed texts. Its influence extends across India and the global Hindu diaspora, making it one of the most recited devotional texts in contemporary Hinduism. The text remains unchanged since its original composition, preserving Tulsidas's spiritual vision across five centuries.
What is the proper pronunciation of key phrases in the Hanuman Chalisa?
The Hanuman Chalisa uses Awadhi language with Sanskrit elements, and while perfect pronunciation requires practice, understanding key phrases can enhance your chanting experience. The opening invocation 'Om Namah Hanumante' is pronounced 'OM NAH-mah HAH-noo-MAHN-tay,' honoring Hanuman with reverence. 'Jai Hanuman' (glory to Hanuman) is pronounced 'JAI HAH-noo-MAHN,' a common refrain throughout the text. 'Gyan Gun Sagar' (ocean of wisdom and virtues) is pronounced 'GYAHN GOON SAH-gar.' 'Raghubar Priy' (beloved of Rama) sounds like 'RAH-ghoo-bahr PREEY.' 'Jaya Jaya Jaya Hanuman Gosai' (repeated glorification) is 'JAH-yah JAH-yah JAH-yah HAH-noo-MAHN GO-sai.' Sanskrit vowels are generally pronounced as: 'a' like in 'father,' 'i' like 'see,' 'u' like 'moon,' and 'ai' like 'my.' Consonants are typically pronounced as in English, though 'kh' and 'gh' are aspirated sounds requiring breath. Recording yourself and comparing with established chanters from trusted sources like temples or spiritual teachers can improve accuracy. However, tradition emphasizes that sincere devotion and clear intention matter more than perfect pronunciation. Many practitioners chant in their local language translation while maintaining the Chalisa's devotional spirit. Audio recordings by experienced chanters are invaluable learning tools available online and through spiritual organizations.
What happens if we chant Hanuman Chalisa?
Regular chanting of Hanuman Chalisa creates measurable shifts in your mental, emotional, and spiritual state. Grants fearlessness and inner courage to face life's obstacles and challenges with equanimity.. Removes negative mental patterns, obstacles, and destructive thoughts; protects the practitioner from harm.. Strengthens mental clarity, intellectual focus, and wisdom needed for spiritual and worldly success.. Most practitioners notice a tangible difference within the first week of daily practice — start with 108 repetitions using a mala and observe how your inner state transforms.

Related Prayers & Chants

🪘

Ancient Chants — Gold Edition

Get access to ancient meditation mantras. 80% OFF for limited time.

Get 80% OFF →