Excerpt: The Hanuman Chalisa

Acclaimed poet and novelist Vikram Seth brings a flawless English translation of The Hanuman Chalisa. Following rhyme and metre and with the magical incantory quality of the orginal Awadhi, this bilingual book will let millions experience the enigma that is one of the best-loved hymns of all time.

jaya hanumaana gyaana guna saagar

jaya kapeesa tihu(n) loka ujaagar

…

Hail Hanuman, great wisdom’s ocean—

The three worlds glow with your light and devotion.

…

…

raamadoota atulita bala dhaamaa

anjaniputra pavanasuta naamaa

…

Envoy of Ram, in mightiness towering;

Anjani’s son, and the Wind’s, overpowering.

…

…

mahaabeera bikrama bajarangee

kumati nivaara sumati ke sangee

…

Sturdy-limbed and brave past telling,

Friend of the good, all evil dispelling,

…

…

kanchana barana biraaja subesaa

kaanana kunDala kunchita kesaa

…

Golden-bodied—in fine robes appearing,

Curly haired—on each side an earring,

…

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haatha bajra au dhwajaa biraajai

kaa(n)dhe moo(n)ja jane-oo saajai

…

Banner and mace raised before the beholder,

The sacred thread across your left shoulder,

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…

sankara suvana kesareenandan

teja prataapa mahaa jaga bandan

…

Kesari’s son and Shiva’s descendant,

The world for its light upon you is dependent.