கம்பரின்அனுமன்

Kamban’s Hanuman

Abstract

The Kambaramayanam holds a place of pride, adorning the forefront of unparalleled literary works in Tamil. It is magnificent, brimming with both literary excellence and devotional fervor. A unique distinction of Kamban lies in how he integrates diverse characters throughout the epic to enhance its grandeur. He provides them with situations and actions tailored to their nature and merit, revealing their character traits through both the poet's own narrative and the dialogue of other characters. In this regard, this article is structured to describe Hanuman, who stands out as a supreme creation in character portrayal. Beyond his celebrated role as the quintessential emissary, Hanuman is depicted by Kamban as a flawless blend of intellectual brilliance, linguistic mastery, and unwavering humility. This study meticulously analyzes the critical episodes where Hanuman's astute diplomacy and moral fortitude shift the trajectory of the epic. By examining the subtle nuances in his dialogues and actions, the article explores how Kamban elevates Hanuman from a loyal warrior to an embodiment of divine wisdom. Ultimately, this research highlights how the characterization of Hanuman serves as a foundational pillar for the epic's overarching spiritual and ethical narrative.