Story Summary
Discover how Hanuman burns Lanka in this epic Ramayana tale. Witness the monkey god's divine power as he outsmarts Ravana and leaves the golden city in flames.
After finding Sita in the Ashoka Vatika and offering her Lord Rama’s ring, Hanuman allowed himself to be captured by Ravana’s son, Indrajit, to gain an audience with the demon king. In the magnificent court of Lanka, Hanuman demanded Sita’s release, warning Ravana of Rama’s inevitable victory. Enraged by the monkey’s insolence, Ravana ordered his execution, but his brother Vibhishana intervened, noting that messengers should not be killed. Instead, Ravana ordered that Hanuman’s tail—a monkey’s pride—be wrapped in oil-soaked cloths and set ablaze. As the fire roared, Hanuman used his divine powers to shrink, slipping out of his bonds, and then grew to a massive size. He leaped from rooftop to rooftop across the golden city, his flaming tail acting as a torch. The dry thatch and opulent palaces of Lanka were soon engulfed in an uncontrollable inferno. Only the Ashoka Vatika, where Sita was held, remained untouched. Having demonstrated Rama's terrifying power and leaving the golden city in ruins, Hanuman extinguished his tail in the sea and returned to Rama with news of Sita's whereabouts.
The Moral
Arrogance and the mistreatment of others lead to total destruction, while selfless devotion grants one the power to overcome any adversity.
“A messenger's tail is his pride; let it burn so he returns in shame to his master.”
Fun Fact
In many cultural traditions, the 'Sundara Kanda'—the section of the Ramayana containing this story—is recited to remove obstacles and bring strength to the devotee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Hanuman burn Lanka?
Hanuman burned Lanka to humble Ravana’s pride and demonstrate the overwhelming power of Lord Rama's forces. It served as a psychological warning that the demon king’s fortress was not invincible.
Who ordered Hanuman's tail to be set on fire?
King Ravana ordered the punishment after his son Indrajit captured Hanuman. He believed that humiliating a monkey by burning its tail would be a fitting insult to Rama.
Why didn't the fire burn Hanuman himself?
Upon seeing Hanuman's tail on fire, Sita prayed to Agni, the God of Fire, asking him to remain cool for Hanuman. Because of her purity and Hanuman’s own divine nature, the flames burned the city but did not harm him.
Who advised Ravana not to kill Hanuman?
Ravana’s younger brother, Vibhishana, advised against the execution. He reminded Ravana that according to dharma, a messenger or envoy should never be put to death, even if they are an enemy.
How did Hanuman escape his bonds in Ravana's court?
Hanuman possessed the 'Siddhis' or supernatural powers to change his size at will. He shrunk his body to slip out of the ropes and then expanded to a giant form to begin his path of destruction.
Which part of Lanka was not burned by Hanuman?
The Ashoka Vatika, where Sita was being held captive, was spared from the fire. Hanuman ensured that the grove remained safe out of respect for Sita and to follow the protection granted by the gods.