40. Hanuman’s Valor and the Fall of Shatamukha

The Rise of a New Threat

Soon after Rama began his rule, a tribe of Gundharvas proved to be a menace to the northern frontier of his kingdom. At Rama’s command, Bharata led an army to the frontier and drove the troublemakers away, bringing great relief to the people in the area.

The Appearance of Lavanasura

In another remote part of the kingdom, a new danger arose in the form of Lavanasura, a terrible demon. Rama recognized that this foe was adept at creating illusions and resorting to supernatural tricks. He summoned Vibhishana through Hanuman, who soon arrived accompanied by a group of demon heroes. Rama tasked Shatrughna to lead his army against the demon, and together they set out on a martial expedition.

The Battle with Lavanasura

Lavanasura and his tribe were merciless and murderous, but Shatrughna faced them boldly. Vibhishana proved to be a great support, as he could see through the demon’s illusions and tricks. After a fierce battle, Lavanasura fell to Shatrughna’s arrows. Joy erupted in Ayodhya when messengers returned from the battlefield announcing the demon’s defeat. When Shatrughna and Vibhishana returned in stately chariots, the citizens flocked to the streets to welcome the heroes, and for many days, the city remained in a festive mood.

A Warning from the Sage

One day, Rama and Sita were seated in the court, surrounded by Hanuman, Vashistha, Bharata, Lakshmana, Shatrughna, Sugriva, Angada, Nala, Neela, Jambavan, Vibhishana, and others. Suddenly, the great sage Agastya appeared before them. Rama stood and greeted him with respect.

Agastya’s Ominous News

“O blessed soul, please tell me if I can be of any service to you,” Rama inquired.

“Like everyone else, I have no complaints under your noble rule. But I must caution you of a grave danger. While we praise you for vanquishing Ravana, I wonder if you are aware of the hundred-headed demon, Shatamukha, who is conspiring against you from his magical city beyond the bitter sea,” Agastya warned.

“I know little of this demon,” Rama admitted.

“Kashyapa had a wife named Basu, who, at an ill-fated moment, gave birth to Shatamukha. He worshipped Brahma for a long time and secured boons that make him a menace even to Indra, the king of gods. He is extremely arrogant and wishes to conquer all three worlds. O Rama, you alone can defeat him!” Agastya urged.

The Call for Hanuman

After Agastya departed, Rama confided in his brothers and friends about his concerns. “I have endured long battles, as have my brothers. Who among us is bold enough to face this new threat?” Rama pondered. His gaze then fell upon Hanuman.

“O hero! You alone can take on this task. You may be humble, but I know you are an emanation of Rudra. You are capable of the impossible if you choose,” Rama declared.

“My lord, I am at your service. Is there a demon so powerful that he can withstand your wrath? Please, sit on my shoulder; I shall carry you to him,” Hanuman replied, his humility evident.

The Expedition Begins

“You are unmatched for your courage and loyalty, O Hanuman,” Rama said, embracing him. As preparations for the expedition took place, Sita expressed her desire to accompany Rama alongside Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrughna, Sugriva, Vibhishana, and a loyal army.

As they set off, Hanuman began to expand his body, astonishing everyone. Sita climbed onto his shoulder, followed by Rama, and soon everyone found their place on Hanuman’s back. Rising high into the sky, it seemed as if a mountain was flying.

The Enchanted City of Shatamukha

As Hanuman soared over the seas, Rama informed Sita of their names. In due course, they spotted the magical city of Shatamukha in the distance, protected by a dazzling wall of gold. Hanuman descended before the main gate, where a magnificent garden awaited them.

“Launch the attack immediately,” Rama commanded. The army, led by Sugriva, Angada, Vibhishana, and others, began to gather boulders and heaped them against the wall, eventually breaking open the main door.

The Unexpected Foe

The demon guarding the gate, Kalakeya, was startled by the sudden intrusion. “Who are these creatures? Don’t they know it is the invincible Shatamukha who owns this city?” he wondered, roaring and charging at the invaders. Initially, Rama’s soldiers were intimidated, but Vibhishana rallied them to face the demon bravely. The battle soon escalated.

The Clash with Shatamukha

Shatamukha was preparing for worship when one of his guards reported the siege. Unfazed, he mocked the attackers, but soon donned his battle gear nonetheless. As he emerged, Rama noticed the demon’s impressive stature and armor. Hanuman advised Rama not to be deceived by Shatamukha’s appearance.

As if on cue, Hanuman leaped forward and struck Shatamukha, who stumbled but quickly regained his composure. Impressed, Shatamukha vowed to showcase his might. A fierce battle ensued, with Hanuman catching and breaking every weapon hurled at him.

The Battle Turns

Rama, inspired by Hanuman’s bravery, joined the fight but was momentarily overpowered by Shatamukha. Just as things seemed dire, Hanuman extended his tail, and Rama and Vibhishana caught hold of it to re-enter the fray. The fighting resumed, but the powerful demon continued to overpower Rama’s soldiers with ease.

Finally, Rama and Sita took their places on Hanuman’s shoulder. Shatamukha mocked Rama, but Rama responded not with words but with a shower of arrows. The demon deftly evaded them.

The Final Blow

Exhausted, Rama handed his bow to Sita. “If Rama is true and if I am faithful to him, this arrow shall end the demon,” she declared. Sita’s shot found its mark, ending Shatamukha’s life. Grateful, Rama presented his jewel necklace to Sita as a reward for her bravery.

“Hanuman, who carried us here and fought valiantly, deserves this gift,” Sita said, and Rama handed the necklace to Hanuman. With humility, Hanuman accepted it, declaring it would remind him of Rama and Sita in his heart.

A Return to Peace

Rama and Sita returned to Ayodhya, where Vibhishana proceeded to hold court in Lanka and Sugriva returned to Kiskindhya. Hanuman, however, remained at Rama’s side.

Rama focused on establishing a just rule, and the people thrived under his leadership. Hanuman, feeling the longing to visit his mother, Anjana, was granted permission by Rama to return to her above the Gandhamadan hill.