Hidden within the majestic Himalayas of Uttarakhand lies Dronagiri Mountain, a place where mythology, faith, and natural mystery converge. Revered in the Ramayana, Dronagiri is believed to be the origin of Sanjeevani Booti, the legendary herb that restored Lakshman’s life during the battle of Lanka.
For centuries, this mountain has drawn pilgrims, sages, researchers, and trekkers who believe that its forests still hold rare medicinal plants linked to ancient healing traditions. The story of Hanuman carrying Dronagiri is not only a tale of divine strength but also a symbol of selfless devotion and decisive action.
Where Is Dronagiri Mountain Located?
Dronagiri Mountain, also known as Dunagiri Parvat, is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, within the Garhwal Himalayan range. Rising to an elevation of approximately 7,066 meters, it stands near the Indo-Tibetan border and is surrounded by dense alpine forests known for their biodiversity.
The region is home to the Bhotia tribe, an indigenous Himalayan community that has preserved ancient oral traditions related to the mountain. For them, Dronagiri is not merely a peak—it is a living sacred landscape tied to healing, loss, and legend.
The Ramayana Story of Sanjeevani Booti
Lakshman’s Life at Risk
During the intense battle of Lanka, Indrajit (Meghnad) struck Lakshman with a powerful weapon, rendering him unconscious and near death. Despite all efforts, no treatment could revive him. Lord Rama and the Vanar Sena were overwhelmed with grief.
The Only Cure
The royal physician Sushena declared that Lakshman could be saved only with Sanjeevani Booti, a rare herb that grew exclusively on Dronagiri Mountain. The herb had to be brought before sunrise, or Lakshman’s life would be lost forever.
Hanuman Ji’s Journey to Dronagiri
Without hesitation, Hanuman Ji leapt across oceans and mountains to reach the Himalayas. Upon arriving at Dronagiri, he faced a challenge—he could not identify the exact herb among thousands of medicinal plants.
Rather than risk failure, Hanuman made a decisive choice. He lifted the entire Dronagiri Mountain and carried it back to Lanka. This moment remains one of the most powerful episodes of the Ramayana, highlighting clarity of purpose over hesitation.
The Miracle and Its Aftermath
Sushena extracted the Sanjeevani herb from the mountain, prepared the medicine, and applied it to Lakshman. Soon after, Lakshman regained consciousness and returned to the battlefield.
Hanuman then returned Dronagiri to its original location, but folklore suggests that the mountain was never the same again.
Are There Signs of Hanuman Ji on Dronagiri Today?
Local belief holds that a distinct depression or altered terrain exists on Dronagiri Mountain, marking the portion that Hanuman carried away. While there is no scientific confirmation, these stories have been passed down for generations.
Interestingly, the Bhotia community does not traditionally worship Hanuman Ji. According to their belief, Hanuman’s act removed a sacred part of their mountain, and for this reason, his idols are absent from their temples, a rare cultural exception in Hindu tradition.
What Is Sanjeevani Booti?
Sanjeevani Booti is described in the Ramayana as a life-restoring medicinal herb capable of reversing death-like conditions. Ancient texts attribute four qualities to it:
- It restores consciousness
- It heals severe wounds
- It removes toxins
- It rejuvenates the body
Some modern researchers speculate that Sanjeevani could refer to a group of high-altitude Himalayan herbs with strong regenerative properties. Plants such as Selaginella bryopteris have been studied for similar effects, though no definitive link has been proven.
Mythological and Cultural Significance of Dronagiri Mountain
A Distinct Spiritual Atmosphere
Many visitors report a sense of calm and heightened awareness while trekking in the area, often describing the environment as unusually pure and energizing.
Rare Medicinal Flora
Botanists have documented unique alpine plants in the region that are absent in nearby ranges, supporting long-standing beliefs about Dronagiri’s healing ecosystem.
Sacred Rituals
Local villagers perform pujas, yajnas, and seasonal rituals to honor the mountain and its medicinal heritage, treating the land itself as sacred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the mountain that Hanuman carried now?
The mountain associated with the Sanjeevani legend is Dronagiri (Dunagiri), located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It remains in its original Himalayan setting.
Which mountain did Hanuman lift in the Ramayana?
According to the Ramayana, Hanuman carried Dronagiri Mountain when he was unable to identify the Sanjeevani Booti.
Where is Dronagiri Parvat located?
Dronagiri Parvat lies in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-Tibetan border, and is part of the Chamoli district.
Is Sanjeevani Booti proven by modern science?
No direct scientific evidence confirms the existence of the Sanjeevani Booti as described in the Ramayana, though several Himalayan herbs exhibit strong medicinal properties.
Can Dronagiri Mountain be visited today?
Yes, the region is accessible to trekkers and pilgrims, though travel requires preparation due to high altitude and weather conditions.
Also, Read -
Hanuman Ji Gada and Its Meaning in Hindu Mythology
Conclusion
Dronagiri Mountain remains one of India’s most intriguing sacred sites, blending mythology, medicine, and Himalayan ecology. While science may not yet validate the legend of Sanjeevani Booti, the faith surrounding Hanuman Ji’s journey continues to inspire generations.
Whether viewed as a spiritual symbol, a reservoir of rare medicinal plants, or a living chapter of the Ramayana, Dronagiri stands as a reminder of India’s deep connection between nature, healing, and devotion. Its story continues to draw seekers who believe that some mysteries are meant to be respected, not resolved.
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