In search for Mata Sita

The search for Mata Sita forms the core of the Sundara Kanda, the fifth book of the Ramayana. Sent south by King Sugriva as part of the Vanara search party, Hanuman ji’s quest highlights unwavering devotion (Bhakti), intellect, and formidable strength. 

The Mission Begins 

• The Ring of Trust: Knowing Hanuman ji's capabilities and devotion, Lord Rama entrusted him with his personal signet ring (Chudamani/Anguthi) so Mata Sita would recognize him as an authentic messenger. 

• Awakening Power: Standing at the southern coast of Mahendra Parvat, the ocean seemed impassable. Jambavan reminded Hanuman ji of his latent divine powers, prompting him to assume a massive form (Vishwaroopa) to leap across the ocean to Lanka. 

Obstacles Across the Ocean 

• Mount Mainaka: Offered Hanuman ji a place to rest, but Hanuman declined politely, prioritizing Lord Rama’s work. 

• Surasa: The mother of Nagas tested his wisdom by expanding her mouth to swallow him. Hanuman grew larger than her mouth, then shrank to the size of a thumb, entered her mouth, and exited quickly—passing her test of wit. 

• Sinhika: A demoness who captured shadows to pull prey into her jaws. Hanuman ji entered her body and destroyed her from within. 

Infiltration of Lanka 

• Defeating Lankini: Upon reaching Lanka's gates, Hanuman ji defeated Lankini, the guardian deity of the city, who recognized the fulfillment of a prophecy marking the downfall of Ravana's empire. 

• Meeting Vibhishana: Assuming the form of a tiny monkey (Sukshma Roopa), he searched Lanka and discovered a house decorated with the signs of Lord Vishnu. There, he met Vibhishana, Ravana's righteous brother, who guided him toward Ashok Vatika. 

Discovery in Ashok Vatika 

• The Meeting: Hidden among the branches of a Shimshapa tree, Hanuman ji observed Mata Sita surrounded by demonesses, steadfastly resisting Ravana’s threats. 

• Delivering the Ring: Once Ravana left, Hanuman softly chanted the glories of Lord Rama. He dropped the signet ring before Mata Sita, earned her trust, and offered to carry her back. Mata Sita declined, asserting that Lord Rama himself must defeat Ravana to restore honor. 

The Burning of Lanka & Return 

• Madhuvan & Ravana's Court: To test Ravana's strength and leave a warning, Hanuman ji devastated the royal garden, killed several demon warriors (including Aksayakumara), and allowed himself to be bound by Indrajit's Brahmastra. 

• Lanka Dahan: When Ravana ordered Hanuman's tail to be set on fire, Hanuman ji expanded his size, escaped his bonds, and set fire to the fortress of Lanka. 

• The Joyful Return: Returning across the ocean to Lord Rama, Hanuman ji delivered Mata Sita's jewel (Chudamani) with the message: "I have seen Sita."