Carrying Mountains and Moving Hearts: Reflections on Verses 11–12 of the Hanuman Chalisa

As we journey deeper into the sacred verses of the Hanuman Chalisa, we come to two lines that reflect Hanuman’s extraordinary strength and selfless action. These verses remind us that devotion is not passive—it moves mountains, quite literally, when it flows from pure love and unwavering faith.

Verse 11
“Sukshma roop dhari Siyahi dikhava,
Vikat roop dhari lanka jarava”
You assumed a subtle form to appear before Sita,
And a fierce form to burn Lanka.

In this verse, we glimpse the dual nature of Hanuman—gentle and fierce, compassionate and courageous. He takes a subtle, humble form when approaching Sita in captivity, out of respect and devotion. In contrast, when faced with injustice and evil, he becomes powerful and unstoppable, burning Lanka to defend righteousness.

Hanuman teaches us how to move through life with discernment. He is not bound to one expression of power—his strength lies in his adaptability, rooted in love. In the face of suffering, he is gentle. In the face of cruelty, he becomes a force of divine justice. The lesson here is timeless: true strength knows when to be soft and when to be bold.

Verse 12
“Bhim roop dhari asur sanghare,
Ramachandra ke kaaj sanvare”
In your terrifying form, you destroyed demons,
Fulfilling the tasks of Lord Ram.

This verse further honors Hanuman’s role as a protector and divine warrior. He does not seek violence or power for himself—but when dharma is threatened, he rises with unmatched might to defend it. Every action he takes is to serve Lord Ram’s purpose. There’s no personal ambition, only surrender to a higher will.

Hanuman embodies what it means to be an instrument of divine service. He shows us that even the fiercest power, when aligned with love and righteousness, becomes a tool of transformation and healing.

Embodying Hanuman’s Wisdom
These verses speak directly to the heart of what it means to live in service: we are called to be soft when the moment asks for compassion, and bold when truth needs defending. Hanuman didn’t choose form or reaction based on ego—his every action flowed from devotion and clarity of purpose.

Maharaj-ji Neem Karoli Baba often spoke of this balance—reminding devotees that power is not in domination, but in loving action. To serve is to become available, like Hanuman, for whatever the moment requires. Whether whispering comfort or standing strong against injustice, we act not for ourselves, but for love.

As we reflect on these lines, we can ask ourselves:

How do I respond to the needs of each moment—with humility, or with force rooted in love?

Can I surrender my own agenda to serve something greater?

Where am I being asked to act—not from anger, but from courage and devotion?

May Hanuman’s fearless example guide us in living lives of discernment, strength, and service.

Jai Hanuman! Jai Maharaj-ji!