From Ramayana to Reels: How Kalanemi became a symbol of hypocrisy; Watch video

New Delhi: These days, the name "Kalanemi" is gaining traction on social media and online platforms. People want to know why this name is suddenly trending. In fact, its roots lie in a famous and instructive incident from the Ramayana period, which is considered equally relevant today.

According to the Ramayana, during the battle between Lord Rama and Ravana, Meghnath fatally attacked Lakshmana, rendering him unconscious. To save his life, Hanuman was ordered to bring the Sanjivani herb before sunrise. Upon receiving this news, Ravana sent his cousin Kalanemi to stop Hanuman. Kalanemi disguised himself as a sage and created a monastery and a lake along the way, suggesting Hanuman rest and bathe.

When Hanuman entered the lake, a crocodile grabbed his leg. Hanuman killed it, after which it transformed into an Apsara. The Apsara exposed Kalanemi's plot. As soon as the truth was revealed, Kalanemi revealed his true form, but Hanuman destroyed it with a single blow.

In today's times, Kalanemi is not just a mythological figure, but has become a symbol of a mindset that outwardly feigns righteousness and devotion, yet is inherently filled with deceit and selfishness. This is why Kalanemi's name is still invoked in discussions of deception and hypocrisy.