Anjaneya / Hanuman
A simple recollection of the name itself brings about a great joy propelled by Bhakti. A mere reflection of the imposing mountain range adds fervor to Prapatti. This one word is enough to create a ripple effect of utmost dedication. What makes the word so powerful and impactful?
One reason is the presence of the Supreme Godhead in the Sanctum Sanctorum of the temple located on the hill. There should not be an iota of doubt to believe in this reason. But there is yet another factor that drives boundless Bhakti on hearing the word ‘Tirumala.’ And that reason is – Anjaneya or Hanuman.
All Puranas and Itihasas of Vedic lore stress an important aspect of ‘Bhakta Vatsalya’ shown by the Almighty. The Supreme Soul always shows a tender affection towards the other souls in this creation.
Through the episodes of Prahlada, Gajendra & Ajamila, God Narayana has exemplified His infinite kindness towards his Bhaktas. He preferred to be called “Prahlada Varada” “Gaja Rakshaka” or “Ajamila Varada” instead of being called Vishnu or Hari or Sarvottama.
Anjanadri
Likewise, the limitless power of the word Tirumala can also be ascribed to ‘Anjanadri’ an alternative name for the same hill. Bhavishyottara Purana vividly describes how the Tirumala hill got to be known as ‘Anjanadri’ during Treta Yuga.
Legend
Kesari and Anjana belong to the Vanara (monkey) race and were living in precincts of Pampa Kshetra (today’s Hampi). They were frequenting the hermitage of Sage Matanga to attain spiritual knowledge. Though they were married for a long, unfortunately, they were left childless and this has caused great agony for the benevolent couple.
They sought a bit of advice from their Guru and a response to the request Sage Matanga told them to relocate to Tirumala Hill. He told Anjana Devi to undertake a severe penance on the banks of Akasaganga, a sacred water body located on the Tirumala hill.
Accordingly, Kesari and Anjana reached Akasaganga where the latter took to penance for 12 years. As a result of her austerity, Vayudeva (God of Wind) bestowed Anjani with a mango fruit in which his reflection was embedded.
Subsequently, Kesari and Anjana were blessed with a boy who had been named ‘Hanuman’ by the sages.
Meaning of Hanuman
In Sanskrit, ‘Hanu’ means ‘knowledge’, and ‘Man’ means the one possessing (a quality). Thus Hanuman means the one with ‘great knowledge’. As he was born to Anjana Devi, the boy has also been called as ‘Anjaneya’.
God Vishnu was pleased with the severe penance of Anjana and bestowed a boon that the sacred will be known after her name. Thus, ‘Anjanadri’ became a synonym for Tirumala.
Anjanadri – Birthplace of Anjaneya
The name ‘Anjanadri’ also indicates the birth of Anjaneya which took place on this hill. It also must be remembered here that the water needed for the daily Puja of Sri Venkateswara is being brought from Akasaganga only on the banks of which Anjanadevi gave birth to Anjaneya.
Thus, the Supreme Godhead presented his sacred abode as a symbol of virtuous austerity, sincere devotion, and unparalleled dedication. This is the reason why the word ‘Tirumala’ generates such fervor among devotees to this day.
We are quite familiar with the relationship between Lord Rama and Hanuman. Like how Sita can’t be separated from Rama so is the case with Rama and Hanuma. Ancient scriptures such as Ananda Ramayana describe the pilgrimage of Lord Rama to Anjanadri after He was coroneted as the king of Ayodhya.
This legend clearly shows how Rama who is none other than Lord Venkateswara has highlighted the importance and sanctity of Anjanadri (Tirumala).
*Data Source: Saptagiri Magazine
