When Sugriva first saw Rama and Lakshmana approaching the forest in heroic form, carrying divine weapons, he was shaken. Sugriva was righteous and understood the duties of a king. Seeing two unknown warriors of extraordinary appearance, he discussed the matter with his ministers. Remembering his own weakness and the strength of his enemy Vali, he became even more troubled.
Sugriva feared these warriors might have been sent by Vali. Their posture, their weapons and even their clothing made him suspicious. Thinking they were disguised intentionally, Sugriva and the vanaras became anxious and moved cautiously from one mountain peak to another.
Sugriva and his ministers gathered on Mount Rishyamuka, the only place where Vali could not come due to a curse. Still, Sugriva’s mind remained restless. Seeing this, Hanuman—wise, skilled in speech and deep in understanding—said: “Do not fear Vali here. This mountain is safe. Let us first understand who these two men truly are.”
Sugriva replied: “Look at them. Their arms are long, their eyes brilliant. They shine like divine princes carrying bows and swords. Anyone would fear them. I still suspect Vali has sent them.”
He then instructed Hanuman: “Go to them in the form of an ordinary person. Observe their expressions, speech and intentions. Ask why they have come. If they appear truthful and noble, speak gently of me and create trust between us.”
Obeying Sugriva, Hanuman leapt from Rishyamuka and approached the two princes in the guise of a humble wandering monk. With courtesy and soft speech he bowed and said:
“O warriors, you appear truthful, disciplined and powerful like divine beings. What brings you to this wild forest? Why do you observe every tree and every movement near the Pampa Lake? Your radiance is like gold; your strength is evident. Who are you, and from where have you come?”
He admired their shining bows and swords and their majestic presence:
“Your bows gleam like Indra’s thunderbolt; your swords are adorned with gold. You look capable of protecting the entire world. Your bodies glow like the sun and moon standing together.”
Hanuman then declared his purpose:
“Sugriva, the noble vanara exiled by his brother Vali, lives here in sorrow. On his command I have come to meet you. I am Hanuman, son of the Wind-god, capable of traveling anywhere and taking any form. I have come in disguise to understand your intentions and to request friendship on his behalf.”
Hearing these sincere words, Rama’s face lit with joy. He said to Lakshmana:
“O son of Sumitra, this is no ordinary messenger. This is Hanuman, Sugriva’s wise minister. Speak to him with affection and kindness.”
Thus, in this very first meeting, a profound spiritual bond was formed. Even before knowing Rama’s divine identity, Hanuman’s heart held pure devotion. His humility, intelligence and sincerity created instant trust—an inner recognition between the Divine and the most perfect devotee.
Just as in true spiritual life, the first meeting between Guru and disciple may appear simple externally, but inwardly the Guru already knows everything. The disciple gradually awakens, just as Hanuman awakened to who Rama truly was. Their first meeting is therefore not merely an episode in the Ramayana; it is a timeless example of how divine relationships begin—through humility, sincerity and purity of heart.