The Story of Hanuman and Mainaka, the Flying Mountain

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In the Ramayana, Mainaka Mountain emerges from the ocean to offer Hanuman a place to rest during his journey to Lanka. The legend behind this gesture traces back to a time when all mountains had wings, and Mainaka was saved by the wind god, Vayu.

Characters in the story:

Hanuman: Hanuman is a revered deity in Hinduism, known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and his incredible strength, symbolizing courage, loyalty, and selflessness.

Mainaka: Mainaka is a flying mountain who became an ally of Hanuman, helping the deity on his journey to Lanka.

Lord Indra: Lord Indra is a prominent deity in Hinduism and is known as the king of the gods and ruler of the heavens. He is associated with thunder, lightning, and rain, and is often depicted riding a white elephant named Airavata.

Lord Vayu: Lord Vayu is a prominent deity in Hindu scriptures, revered as the god of wind and the vital life force that sustains all beings.

In the Ramayana, Mainaka Mountain plays a significant role during Hanuman’s journey to Lanka. As Hanuman leaped across the sea to reach Lanka, Mainaka Mountain emerged from the ocean to offer him a place to rest. There is a fascinating legend explaining why the mountain rose to aid Hanuman.

In the Krita Yuga (also called Satya Yuga), all mountains had wings and could soar through the skies like birds. However, their ability to fly caused great concern, as people feared these mountains might fall at any moment, causing massive destruction.

In response, the saints and other beings sought a solution from Indra, the king of the Devas. A council of Devas was convened, and it was decided that the wings of all flying mountains should be clipped. Indra took his mighty weapon, Vajra, and began cutting the wings off every mountain.

When Indra attempted to clip the wings of Mainaka Mountain, it evaded him, aided by powerful winds. The wind god, Vayu, who was a close friend of Mainaka, protected the mountain from Indra’s efforts. Despite several attempts by the Devas to hold down Mainaka, Vayu’s powerful gusts kept it out of reach.

Vayu finally agreed that Mainaka would no longer fly over the land, provided it wouldn’t cause harm. To fulfill this promise, Vayu placed Mainaka in the ocean, instructing it to stay there.

When Hanuman, the son of Vayu, embarked on his mission to Lanka, Mainaka Mountain rose from the sea to show its gratitude to Vayu, offering Hanuman a place to rest during his great leap.

Hanuman touched the mountain with his hand but did not stop to rest, as he had duties to fulfill. He flew over Mainaka and continued on his journey.

In gratitude to Vayu, Mainaka Mountain rose from the sea to assist Hanuman, symbolizing the enduring bonds of friendship among the divine. Hanuman, while appreciative, continued his journey without resting, exemplifying unwavering commitment to his mission.

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