Devotion And Celebration: The Essence Of Hanuman Jayanti

Through devotion and celebration, Hanuman Jayanti reminds us of the virtues of courage, humility, and loyalty.

Hanuman Jayanti, also known as Hanumath Jayanthi, is a sacred Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hindu tradition. This festival, filled with devotion and enthusiasm, provides an opportunity for devotees to seek Hanuman's blessings and honor his incredible life and virtues.

1. Significance of Hanuman

Lord Hanuman, also known as Anjaneya, Maruti, Pavanputra, and Bajrangbali, is a central figure in the Ramayana, the ancient Indian epic. He is the son of Mata Anjana and Kesari and is also described as the son of Vayu Deva, the wind god. Known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and Sita, Hanuman is often depicted with folded palms and a bowed head, symbolizing his respect and loyalty.

Hanuman is celebrated for his strength, bravery, wisdom, and humility. He is a Brahmachari (celibate) who served Lord Rama with pure love and devotion, expecting nothing in return. His selfless service and commitment to righteousness earned him the blessing of being Chiranjeevi (immortal) from Sita. He is also given the title of Solin selvan by Lord Rama. It is said that wherever Lord Ram's mantra is recited, Hanuman will be there.

2. Celebrations and Rituals

Hanuman Jayanti is observed with various rituals and festivities across different regions of India. While practices may vary, the essence remains the same – devotion to Lord Hanuman.

Temple Visits: Devotees visit Hanuman temples to offer prayers and seek blessings. They offer vada malai, which are garlands made of savory fritters, and tulasi malai, garlands made of holy basil leaves, along with butter.

Chanting and Recitations: Devotees chant the Hanuman Chalisa, a 40-verse hymn in praise of Hanuman, believed to bring peace and prosperity. Reciting the Sundara Kanda from the Ramayana is also common.

Fasting and Offerings: Many devotees observe a fast (vrat) and make offerings like milagu vada (black pepper fritters), Tulsi garland, betel leaves, butter, poha (flattened rice), and panakam (jaggery water).

Hanuman Tail Worship: It is believed that placing sandal and kumkum dots on Hanuman's tail while chanting Lord Rama’s holy mantras can help devotees get rid of their worries. Starting from the base of the tail, a kumkum dot is placed daily or for 48 days until the tip is reached, marking the completion of a cycle. After completion, the ritual starts again from the beginning. Offerings of butter, poha, pori (puffed rice), panagam (jaggery water), and bananas are made. Tuesday and Thursday are considered auspicious for Hanuman, so this ritual can start on these days.

Regional Variations

The celebration of Hanuman Jayanti varies across India:

North India: Celebrated on Chaitra Purnima (full moon day of the Chaitra month).

Tamil Nadu and Kerala: Observed during Margashirsha Amavasya (new moon day of the Margashirsha month).

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: A 41-day celebration starting from Chaitra Purnima and ending on the tenth day during Krishna Paksha in the Vaishakha month.

Karnataka: Celebrated on Shukla Paksha Trayodashi during the Margashirsha month, known as Hanuman Vratam.

The Spiritual Essence

Hanuman Jayanti is not just about rituals but also a time to reflect on Hanuman's virtues. Devotees aim to imbibe his qualities of devotion, humility, strength, and unwavering faith in God. The festival is a reminder to renew one's commitment to righteousness and selfless service.

To conclude, Hanuman Jayanti is a vibrant and spiritually uplifting festival that unites people in devotion and joy. It reminds us of the timeless values of faith, courage, and selfless service, as exemplified by Lord Hanuman. By celebrating his birth and seeking his blessings, devotees find inspiration to lead lives of commitment, confidence, and devotion.

 In my upcoming article, I will share insights about another Hindu festival. Stay tuned! Your feedback is always welcome.

Your engagement till the end is truly appreciated. Until next time, stay well and keep learning.