Unraveling the Mystery: Why Hanuman Chose Earth Over Vaikuntha (The Story of Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya)

Shri Ram’s greatest devotee is Hanuman Ji. Yet, a profound question often arises: If Hanuman’s devotion was so immense, why did he not accompany Shri Ram to Vaikuntha (Baikunth)?. The answer lies in the ancient and sacred Hanuman Garhi temple in Ayodhya, an eternal symbol of unparalleled devotion.

The Unwavering Love for the Katha

When Lord Shri Ram completed his divine play (leela) of 11,000 years and prepared to return to his abode, Vaikuntha, he desired to take Hanuman with him. Hanuman, however, asked the Lord if His katha (story or discourse) would be recited in Vaikuntha.

Lord Ram replied that the katha would not be there; instead, only they themselves would be present.

Because Hanuman had immense love for Lord Ram’s katha, he declared that he would remain on Mrityu Lok (Earth). Hanuman made a promise: “I will remain on this Earth until there is at least one person left who desires to hear your katha (story)”. This deep, unwavering dedication to hearing and protecting the narrative of his Lord is precisely why Shri Hanuman Maharaj did not depart for Vaikuntha when Lord Ram concluded his leela.

The Watchman of Ayodhya: Hanuman Garhi

The sacred location where Hanuman chose to stay, and the place assigned to him by the Lord, is Shri Hanuman Garhi. Lord Ram established Hanuman there specifically to serve as the guard (chowkidari) and protector (rakhwari) of Ayodhya.

Due to this role, the temple is named Hanuman Garhi. The name itself means “Hanuman Ji’s fort” or “fortress”. In essence, Hanuman Maharaj is regarded by many as the current King of Ayodhya.

A Miracle of the Treta Yuga Idol

The divine significance of Hanuman Garhi is further confirmed by its long history and associated miracles. The idol residing in this temple has been present since the Treta Yuga.

Approximately 500 years ago, a saint named Abhay Das Ji served this very idol, which at the time was situated in a small structure. The effect of his dedicated service was so strong that whatever he said would come true through the grace of Hanuman Ji.

This power was displayed when the son of the Mughal ruler Suja-ud-Daula contracted leprosy (Kushth Rog). After all remedies from physicians and doctors failed to improve his health, a minister advised Suja-ud-Daula about Sant Abhay Das and the special grace of Hanuman Ji upon him.

Taking his son to the saint as a final effort, Sant Abhay Das prayed and sprinkled Hanuman’s holy water (pavitra jal). The young boy was immediately cured. The delighted ruler offered the saint a desired wealth, but Sant Abhay Das refused to take anything.

Today, devotees coming to Ayodhya continue to experience Hanuman Ji Maharaj’s divine presence. Recognizing his role as the protector of the city, every devotee arriving in Ayodhya seeks the blessings of Hanuman Ji first, before proceeding for the sight of Ram Lalla.