Hanuman Jayanti is widely celebrated across India, commemorating the birth of Lord Hanuman, the devoted follower of Lord Rama. According to the Hindu calendar, it falls on the full moon day of Chaitra (the months of May and April).
Lord Hanuman is one of the strongest deities in Hinduism. While he is widely revered for his strength and courage, he always possessed a soft corner for his beloved Lord Ram.
In this blog, we’ll learn more about Lord Hanuman including his iconography, the significance behind Hanuman Jayanti, and the rituals associated with the same.
The Legend of Hanuman and His Iconography
The legend of Hanuman is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and is an integral part of the epic Ramayana. Hanuman, also known as Maruti or Pavanputra (son of the wind god), is revered for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and his incredible feats of strength and courage.
According to the Ramayana, Hanuman was born to Anjana, a celestial nymph, and Kesari, the king of the monkeys. He was blessed with immense strength and divine powers by various gods, including Lord Shiva and Vayu, the wind god. Hanuman's birth was foretold to be a part of Lord Vishnu's plan to defeat the demon king Ravana and rescue Goddess Sita, who had been abducted by Ravana.
Hanuman's iconography is distinctive and carries symbolic significance. He is often depicted as a monkey-faced deity with a strong, muscular body. He is usually portrayed in a meditative posture, with his hands folded in prayer or holding a mace (gada) and a mountain. Herein, the mace symbolizes his immense strength, while the mountain symbolizes his ability to move mountains, as he did in the Ramayana to bring the life-saving Sanjeevani booti (herb).
Hanuman is also sometimes depicted tearing his chest open showcasing a picture of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, symbolizing his unwavering devotion to them. And oftentimes you’d see him with a long, curled tail, which represents his playful and mischievous nature as well as his agility and adaptability.
Why Do We Celebrate Hanuman Jayanti?
Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Hanuman, who is revered as a symbol of strength, devotion, and selfless service. Hanuman, also known as Pavanputra or Anjaneya, is believed to be the eleventh incarnation of Lord Shiva and is a central figure in the Indian epic Ramayana.
The celebration of Hanuman Jayanti is rooted in various mythological and religious beliefs. One of the main reasons for celebrating this festival is to honor and pay tribute to the impeccable qualities exhibited by Lord Hanuman during his life.
Hanuman is considered a symbol of strength and perseverance. His unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and his selfless service to him are legendary. Hanuman's leap across the ocean to reach Lanka in search of Sita, his role in rescuing her from the demon king Ravana, and his pivotal role in the battle against Ravana's forces are some of the most celebrated feats in Hindu mythology.
Hanuman is also revered for his humility and devotion. Despite possessing immense power and strength, Hanuman always remained humble and dedicated to serving Lord Rama. His devotion to Rama was so profound that he considered himself to be a humble servant of the Lord, always ready to follow his commands and fulfill his wishes.
Hanuman Jayanti is also celebrated as a day to seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman for strength, courage, and protection. Devotees believe that worshipping Hanuman on this day can help overcome obstacles and difficulties in life and bring success and prosperity.
Rituals Associated with Hanuman Jayanti
Many people observe a fast on Hanuman Jayanti to show their devotion to Lord Hanuman. Here are some rituals associated with fasting and praying on Hanuman Jayanti:
Hanuman Jayanti fast is observed as Tatkalik Tithi which means it is to be observed during the night.
On the evening prior to the fast, pray to Lord Ram, Sita, and Hanuman and sleep on the floor to show respect to the Lord.
Wake up early, take a shower, put on clean clothes, and sit near the east-facing Hanuman ji idol.
Hereafter, hold water in your hands and take a Sankalp to observe the fast with utmost loyalty and devotion.
Lastly, perform all the pooja rituals, following up the day
Lessons to Learn from Hanuman's Life
Hanuman's life teaches us several valuable lessons that are relevant even today. His unwavering devotion to Lord Rama teaches us the importance of faith and loyalty. His courage and strength remind us to face challenges with determination and bravery. Hanuman's humility and selflessness inspire us to serve others and always be ready to help those in need.
Takeaway
Hanuman Jayanti is not just a religious festival but a celebration of the values and qualities that Hanuman epitomizes. It is a reminder for us to cultivate these virtues in our own lives and strive to be better individuals. So, this Hanuman Jayanti, let us celebrate the spirit of strength, kindness, and helping others, just like Lord Hanuman. Jai Hanuman!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q. Why is Hanuman Jayanti celebrated 2 times?
A. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated twice a year across all India. Herein, one Jayanti marks the birth of Hanuman, while the other one marks his ultimate victory over the evil forces.
Q. Who is the wife of Hanuman?
A. According to the legends, Survachala Devi, who was the daughter of Surya Dev, is the wife of Lord Hanuman.
Q. Which day is dedicated to Hanuman ji?
A. Tuesdays specifically are dedicated to Hanuman Ji.
Q. What is the importance of Hanuman Jayanti?
A. Hanuman Jayanti holds great significance in the Hindu culture. It is a day celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Hanuman, an incarnation of Lord Shiva and an ardent devotee of Lord Rama.