India, Oct. 21 -- The story of Lord Hanuman's decision to remain on Earth after Lord Rama's departure carries a powerful message about devotion, love and the desire to remain close to one's beloved deity. According to a well-known Hindu tradition associated with the Ramayana, Hanuman did not seek liberation or a place in Vaikuntha for himself.

Instead, he wished to continue hearing the stories and glories of Lord Rama for as long as people remembered and worshipped him.

The belief is rooted in the Uttara Kanda of the Valmiki Ramayana, which describes Lord Rama granting Hanuman the blessing to remain alive as long as Rama's story continued to be told on Earth. This promise is why devotees regard Hanuman as one of Hinduism's Chiranjivis, ...