Children Picturize their Favorite Hanuman

Lord Hanuman is one of the most important and endearing deities in Hinduism. His multi-faceted personality and virtues inform and inspire all aspects of human endeavor. In the form of Bala Hanuman (divine child), he represents innocence, boundless energy, and mischief (such as trying to swallow the sun). Veer Hanuman epitomizes the courageous warrior of dharma. Shown with a muscular build, holding a mace (gada) or mountain (Dronagiri), he symbolizes discipline, strength, and the defeat of fear.  The Sankata Mochan form emphasizes his wisdom and compassion. Dasa or Bhakta Hanuman demonstrates service and supreme bhakti (devotion), often depicted as kneeling near Lord Rama.

On June 7, CMLA held an art competition to celebrate 30 years of its founding, at Rameshwaram. The theme was Hanumanji And Free Expression, and invited Bala Vihar students to visualize and express their own personal Hanuman through art. They were prompted to highlight the pillars of Bhakti (devotion), Shakti (strength), Wisdom and Symbolism. 

The students responded with an outpouring of creativity and expression that underscored their deep understanding of the subject and their intuitive relationship with Hanuman. Their beautiful, painstakingly worked submissions were truly moving. From full color paintings to elegant line drawings, the students used the medium of art to thoroughly explore the many forms of Hanuman. The artwork we received showed expression at its finest.

Here are the award-winning submissions for your enjoyment.