Anjaneya Swami- Sunderkand Katha

Anjaneya Swami, also known as Lord Hanuman, was lovingly referred to as "Sundar" by his mother, which is why the 5th section of Ramayan is called "Sunder Kaand." Interestingly, this is the only chapter where Lord Hanuman, not Sri Ram, is the protagonist. Many households religiously recite the Sundar Kaand as an auspicious ritual, as it recounts Lord Hanuman's adventures and his selflessness, strength, and devotion to Sri Ram. My artwork is inspired by the Sunder Kaand and its central events, with vivid representations of its characters and settings. The mandala surrounding Lord Hanuman represents continuity, movement, and infinity. Lord Anjaneya was blessed with ASHT-SIDDHI (which include Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Anima, Prapti, Prakamya, ishitva, and vashitva) and NAV-NIDHI (which include Mahapadma, Padma, Shankh, Kacchapa, Makar, Mukund, Nanda, Nila, and Kharva), which are incorporated in the mandalas through mantras and motifs, respectively. The mandala also includes elements of the tale of Sursa, the story of the choodamani and the mudrika, and the coming together of Sugreev ki Sena, through monkeys. The mandala also features many flower-like designs to represent Ashok Vatika. The chola rang of Lord Hanuman is inspired by the tale when he covered himself in sindoor upon seeing Sita Mata use some in praise of Sri Ram's long life.