Hanuman Jayanti – History, Significance & Celebration of this Hindu festival

 



1. Introduction

Hanuman Jayanti is one of the most sacred festivals for Hindus, commemorating the birth of Lord Hanuman, the divine monkey god known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, immense strength, and heroic deeds in the epic Ramayana. Devotees honor Hanuman as a symbol of power, courage, selfless service, and loyalty.

2. Historical Background

  • Hanuman is believed to have been born on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month Chaitra, which generally falls in March or April.
  • According to the scriptures, Hanuman is the son of Anjana and Kesari and is also known as the son of the wind god Vayu, who is said to have played a role in his birth, giving him divine strength and speed.
  • His tales are found in Valmiki’s Ramayana, Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas, and other Puranic texts like the Hanuman Purana and Bhavishya Purana.

3. Significance of Hanuman Jayanti

a. Devotion and Strength

Hanuman is worshipped as the embodiment of devotion (bhakti), bravery, and loyalty. His selfless service to Lord Rama makes him an eternal symbol of the ideal devotee.

b. Protector from Evil

He is also considered a powerful deity who removes fears, provides protection from evil forces, and helps overcome obstacles.

c. Spiritual Aspirations

Devotees believe that sincere prayer to Hanuman can bring discipline, focus, courage, and spiritual strength. He is especially revered by students, wrestlers, soldiers, and those seeking courage or stamina.

4. Regional Variations in Date

  • North India: Celebrated during Chaitra Purnima (March-April).
  • Maharashtra: Observed on the full moon day of Chaitra.
  • Tamil Nadu & Kerala: Celebrated in Margazhi month (December-January).
  • Andhra Pradesh & Telangana: Hanuman Jayanti festivities begin on Chaitra Purnima and continue for 41 days.

5. How Hanuman Jayanti is Celebrated

a. Temple Rituals

  • Special pujas (prayers) and abhishekas (ritual baths) are performed in Hanuman temples.
  • Idols are decorated with sindoor (vermilion), flowers, and garlands.
  • Priests chant Hanuman mantras and stotras like the Hanuman Chalisa and Sundara Kanda from the Ramayana.

b. Fasting and Devotional Practices

  • Devotees observe fasts, often from sunrise to sunset.
  • They chant Hanuman Chalisa or recite 108 names of Hanuman.
  • Some organize or attend Akhand Ramayan Path (continuous reading of the Ramayana).

c. Processions and Bhajans

  • Religious processions are held with Hanuman idols, music, and dance.
  • Bhajan mandalis sing devotional songs in praise of Hanuman.
  • Some regions feature dramatic enactments of Hanuman’s exploits.

d. Offering Food and Prasad

  • Offerings include laddus, fruits, coconuts, and betel leaves.
  • Devotees often offer butter or sindoor, symbolic of his fiery devotion and service.

e. Charity and Seva

  • Many participate in charity work, distribute food, or volunteer at temples.
  • It’s common to see free bhandaras (community feasts) organized on this day.

6. Modern Observations

In addition to traditional practices, Hanuman Jayanti today is also marked by:

  • Online streaming of pujas and discourses.
  • Social media posts spreading messages of courage, devotion, and resilience.
  • Youth groups organizing cleanliness drives, tree planting, and blood donation camps in Hanuman's name.

7. Conclusion

Hanuman Jayanti is not just a religious occasion but a celebration of strength, service, and unshakable faith. Lord Hanuman’s character teaches us humility in strength, wisdom in action, and dedication in duty. Observing this day helps devotees cultivate these values in their own lives.



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