POCKET TALES: HANUMAN, I’M WAITING FOR YOU (Oct )
By Gitanjali Murari
Summary
"Hanuman, I’m Waiting for You," a fictional tale by Gitanjali Murari, is a childhood narrative centered around Naren, a young boy inspired by the story of Hanuman. The story begins with a street storyteller recounting Hanuman’s mischievous attempt to eat the sun, sparking Naren’s curiosity. Intrigued, Naren visits a nearby banana grove, believing Hanuman might appear there due to his love for bananas. As the sun sets and darkness falls, Naren eagerly waits, but Hanuman does not arrive. Disappointed, Naren begins to cry, only to be comforted by his father, Vishwanath, who explains that Hanuman might be occupied with urgent divine duties. Naren accepts this explanation, imagining Hanuman too busy to visit. The story captures a child’s innocent fascination with mythology and the playful interaction between Naren and his father. The author, Gitanjali Murari, a Mumbai-based writer and media professional, and illustrator Lalithaa Thyagarajan are credited for the narrative and visuals, respectively.
Conclusion
This whimsical tale captures the childhood wonder and spirited curiosity of young Naren, embodying the essence of Hanuman’s fearless and adventurous spirit. Through his earnest search for the divine in a banana grove, the narrative highlights the innocence of belief and the imaginative leap required to connect with the divine. The storyteller’s playful twist—suggesting Hanuman’s absence due to cosmic duties—offers a lighthearted yet profound lesson: the divine operates in mysterious ways, often beyond human expectation. Naren’s emotional journey, from excitement to disappointment and finally acceptance, reflects the universal human experience of seeking and finding meaning in unexpected places. The tale serves as a reminder that faith and curiosity can coexist, encouraging readers to embrace the unknown with open hearts.