Hanuman had received many gifts from the gods in his childhood.  So, he was strong and had many powers even as a child. He was a very mischievous child, who was always overflowing with energy. He sometimes teased and tickled the meditating sages in the forests, snatched their personal belongings, and spoiled well arranged worship places. The sages used to get annoyed by Hanuman‘s antics, but realizing that Hanuman was just a child, would tolerate his mischief. Great sages, who were never overly angry or wrathful, became furious and cursed him in the following way: “O monkey, illusion-ed by our curse, you will for a long time be unaware of your own strength, by dint of which you harassed us. Your strength will again grow when you are reminded of your glory.” Thereafter, by the power of the words of the great sages, Hanuman forgot all his abilities and powers.The curse is highlighted in Kishkindha Kanda and Sundara Kanda. It is Jambavanta who reminds Hanuman of his abilities and powers. Jambavanta reminded Hanuman that he has power to fly, just like his father Vayu, thus encouraging Hanuman to go to Lanka and search for Sita. It is believed that when we do selfless service and work in the name of God, and for the benefit of others, our hidden abilities and powers get activated. But at the same time, if we misuse our abilities or means, we tend to lose them or they are not that effective.