How Hanuman outwitted his enemy

King Ravana had an uncle named Kala Nemi, who was keen to rule over half of Ravana'skingdom. When confronted with a war against King Rama'spowerful monkey brigade, Ravana turned to Kala Nemi for help. The latter agreed to kill the enemy in the battle, provided Ravana promised to part with half his kingdom. Knowing the strength of Lord Rama and the prowess of Kala Nemi, Ravana promptly agreed.

On the day of the battle, Kala Nemi shot an arrow at Lakshman who collapsed as he sustained a grievous injury. The royal priests and vaids (country doctors) were called and they unanimously advised that somebody should be sent to get some special herbs from Mount Gandha Madana. So Lord Rama deputed Hanuman to do the job.

Hanuman went flying and as soon as he set foot on the mountain top, a hermit appeared before him and said, ?You Son of Vayu, you have blessed this mountain by setting foot on it. I would like you to set foot in my hermitage so that it too gets blessed.?

Hanuman agreed and accompanied the hermit to his cottage. Before entering the hermitage, Hanuman decided to take a dip in the lake nearby. As soon as he dipped his foot in the lake a crocodile, known for swallowing all living creatures, caught his leg and was about to swallow him up when Hanuman used all his force and broke free, while clubbing the crocodile to death.

From the dead crocodile'smouth appeared a beautiful maiden who, with folded hands, said, ?You have saved my life. I would like to repay you. What are you doing on this mountain??

Hanuman told her the entire story and then the maid warned him, ?Do not visit the hermitage. The hermit living there is none other than Kala Nemi, who wants to kill you. He has disguised himself into a hermit, so beware of him!?

Hanuman thanked her and went to the door of the hermitage where Kala Nemi stood to receive him. Hanuman caught him by his foot and growled, ?You rogue, you thought you could deceive me? I will show you what I can do.? Holding him in his vice like grip, Hanuman swung him around before flinging him forcefully as far as possible.

Kala Nemi went flying in the air and landed at Ravana'sfeet, all life drained out of him. He was no longer alive to lay claim to half of Ravana'skingdom as his attempt to win the reward was foiled by Hanuman.