The ability to become infinitely small or to minimize one’s physical form to the point of being microscopic. Those who attain this siddhi are said to have mastery over their physical body to the extent that they can make it as small as they desire.

In Hinduism, “siddhi” refers to spiritual powers or attainments that are acquired through intense spiritual practice, devotion, and mastery over the mind and body. “Anima” is one of the eight primary siddhis mentioned in Hindu scriptures, particularly in texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and various Tantric texts.

Anima Siddhi specifically refers to the ability to become infinitely small or to minimize one’s physical form to the point of being microscopic. Those who attain this siddhi are said to have mastery over their physical body to the extent that they can make it as small as they desire, allowing them to pass through physical barriers or become virtually invisible.

This is the very first Siddhi giving one the divine power to shrink in size physically. The individual can get reduced to even the miniscule size of an atom. Hanuman accessed this Siddhi while looking for Sita, Ram’s wife in Lanka. His shrunken body could not be spotted by the demons and guards there.

In Hindu mythology and spiritual literature, there are various stories and accounts that illustrate the concept of Anima Siddhi, the ability to become infinitely small or to minimize one’s physical form. While specific stories directly focusing on Anima Siddhi may not be as prevalent as those of other siddhis, there are some instances where characters demonstrate similar abilities or themes related to the concept. Here are a few popular stories and myths that touch upon the idea of Anima Siddhi:

1. Hanuman’s Leap: In the Hindu epic Ramayan, Hanuman, the devoted monkey deity and loyal servant of Lord Ram, exhibited remarkable feats of strength and agility. One of the most famous instances is when Hanuman leaped across the ocean from the southern tip of India to the island of Lanka to find Sita, Lord Ram’s wife who had been kidnapped by the demon king Ravan. While this story primarily emphasizes Hanuman’s prowess in leaping great distances, it also illustrates the idea of transcending physical limitations, which is a central theme in the concept of siddhis.
2. Narad’s Transformation: Sage Narad, a celestial sage known for his devotion to Lord Vishnu and his role as a messenger between gods and humans, is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures. In some accounts, Narad is said to possess the ability to change his form at will. While this doesn’t directly correspond to Anima Siddhi, it reflects the broader theme of mastery over one’s physical appearance and form, which is a characteristic of siddhis in general.
3. Bhim’s Encounter with Hanuman: In the Hindu epic Mahabharat, there’s a story where Bhim, one of the Pandav brothers known for his immense strength, encounters Hanuman in the forest. Initially unaware of Hanuman’s true identity, Bhim engages in a test of strength with him. In this encounter, Hanuman reveals his true form to Bhim, showcasing his gigantic size and power. While this story primarily emphasizes Hanuman’s greatness, it also hints at the idea of altering one’s physical size and form, which is related to the concept of siddhis.

However, it’s essential to understand that the pursuit of siddhis is often considered a distraction from the true goal of spiritual liberation (moksh) in Hinduism. While these powers may be attained through dedicated practice, they are not the ultimate aim of spiritual life. Instead, the focus is generally on self-realization, inner peace, and union with the divine.

The significance of Anima Siddhi in Hinduism lies within the broader context of spiritual practice and the understanding of human potential. Here are some aspects of its significance:

1. Spiritual Mastery: Anima Siddhi represents mastery over the physical body, demonstrating the profound potential within each individual to transcend the limitations of the material world. It underscores the belief in the transformative power of spiritual practice and discipline.
2. Symbol of Spiritual Progress: Attaining Anima Siddhi is seen as a significant milestone on the spiritual path. It indicates the practitioner’s advancement in their spiritual journey, reflecting their dedication, discipline, and progress in mastering the mind and body.
3. Proof of Divine Grace: In some interpretations, the attainment of siddhis, including Anima Siddhi, is viewed as a manifestation of divine grace. It signifies the blessings bestowed upon the practitioner by the divine, affirming their commitment to spiritual growth and the alignment of their will with the cosmic order.
4. Tool for Service: While the pursuit of siddhis should not be the primary goal of spiritual practice, these powers can be seen as tools for serving others and promoting spiritual welfare. Those who attain Anima Siddhi may use their abilities to help others, alleviate suffering, and spread spiritual knowledge and teachings.
5. Testimony to Scriptural Wisdom: The existence of Anima Siddhi, along with other siddhis, is documented in ancient Hindu scriptures such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and various Tantric texts. The significance of Anima Siddhi reaffirms the wisdom and validity of these scriptures, providing a framework for understanding and exploring the depths of human potential.
6. Reminder of Ultimate Liberation: Despite their significance, siddhis, including Anima Siddhi, are considered distractions on the path to spiritual liberation (moksha). They serve as reminders that true fulfillment lies not in acquiring extraordinary powers but in transcending the ego and realizing one’s innate divinity.

Overall, the significance of Anima Siddhi in Hinduism lies in its representation of spiritual progress, divine grace, and the potential for self-transformation. It serves as a reminder of the profound depths of human potential and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation.

In Hindu philosophy, the ultimate aim is to transcend the desires and attachments of the material world, including desires for extraordinary powers, and to attain a state of oneness with the divine consciousness. Therefore, while siddhis such as Anima Siddhi are acknowledged in Hindu scriptures, they are often seen as secondary to the ultimate goal of spiritual enlightenment.