Who Wrote Hanuman Chalisa? The Real Reason It Was Written in Awadhi Language

Understanding the Origins of Hanuman Chalisa : The Hanuman Chalisa is one of the most widely recited devotional hymns in India, known for its spiritual strength and emotional comfort. From daily prayers to moments of fear, it holds a special place in millions of hearts. But have you ever wondered who wrote Hanuman Chalisa and why it was composed in a simple language like Awadhi instead of Sanskrit? The story behind it is both fascinating and deeply meaningful.
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Who Wrote Hanuman Chalisa?


The Hanuman Chalisa was composed by Tulsidas , a revered poet-saint and a devoted follower of Lord Ram. He is also famous for writing the Ramcharitmanas, which brought the epic Ramayana closer to the common people.

Tulsidas lived during a time when most religious scriptures were written in Sanskrit - a language primarily understood by scholars. His mission, however, was different. He aimed to make spirituality accessible and relatable to everyone, regardless of their education or social background.


Significance of Hanuman Chalisa


The Hanuman Chalisa is a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman , symbolising strength, courage, wisdom, and unwavering devotion.

  • The word “Chalisa” refers to its structure of 40 verses
  • Each verse praises Hanuman’s virtues and divine powers
  • It is believed to provide mental strength, clarity, and protection

Many traditional accounts suggest that Tulsidas composed the Chalisa during a challenging phase in his life, finding peace and resilience through devotion.


Why Was Hanuman Chalisa Written in Awadhi and Not Sanskrit?


This is what makes the Hanuman Chalisa truly unique.

At the time of its composition, Sanskrit dominated religious and scholarly texts. However, it was not widely understood by the general population. Recognising this gap, Tulsidas chose Awadhi, a dialect spoken by common people in North India.

Reasons Behind Choosing Awadhi:


  • Accessibility: Awadhi was easily understood by the masses
  • Inclusivity: It allowed people from all backgrounds to connect with devotion
  • Spiritual Movement: It aligned with the Bhakti movement , where saints used regional languages to spread devotion

By doing so, Tulsidas ensured that spirituality was no longer limited to scholars but became a part of everyday life.

The Power of Simplicity in Hanuman Chalisa


One of the biggest strengths of the Hanuman Chalisa lies in its simplicity.


  • Easy-to-remember rhythm and structure
  • Clear and relatable language
  • Deep spiritual meaning despite simple words

This simplicity is why it continues to be recited in various situations—while travelling, before exams, or during moments of fear and uncertainty.

Why Hanuman Chalisa Remains Popular Even Today


The Hanuman Chalisa has stood the test of time and remains one of the most recited hymns in India.

  • It offers emotional comfort and spiritual strength
  • It is easy to memorise and chant
  • It connects deeply with people across generations

By choosing Awadhi over Sanskrit, Tulsidas didn’t just compose a hymn - he created a timeless spiritual bridge that continues to unite millions in faith and devotion.

Disclaimer

This article is based on religious beliefs and traditional narratives. There is no scientific evidence supporting these claims, and interpretations may vary.