Hanuman Jayanti, also known as Hanuman Janmotsav, is a Hindu festival celebrated annually to commemorate the birth of Lord Hanuman. Lord Hanuman is considered as one of the most revered and admired deities in Hinduism. He is worshipped for his unwavering devotion and his unmatched strength, which he used to protect his beloved Lord Rama, and is regarded as the epitome of courage, loyalty, and service.
The festival of Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Chaitra. This day is usually observed in late March or early April, depending on the lunar calendar. Devotees across India and other parts of the world celebrate this day with great enthusiasm and devotion.
The legend behind the birth of Lord Hanuman dates back to the Ramayana, one of the most important epics in Hindu mythology. According to the Ramayana, Hanuman was born to Anjana and Kesari, who were both Vanaras (monkey-like humanoids). Hanuman’s birth was a result of the couple’s intense devotion and penance, which they undertook to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Hanuman’s birth brought immense joy to the couple, and they named him Maruti, which means ‘son of the wind.’ As a child, Hanuman was known for his mischievous nature and playful antics, which often got him into trouble. However, as he grew up, Hanuman developed his immense strength and became an ardent devotee of Lord Rama, whom he served with unwavering loyalty and dedication.
On the day of Hanuman Jayanti, devotees wake up early in the morning and visit Hanuman temples to offer their prayers and seek his blessings. They also recite Hanuman Chalisa, a hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and perform special puja rituals, which include the lighting of diyas (earthen lamps) and the chanting of mantras.
Hanuman Jayanti is also celebrated with great fervour in the holy city of Varanasi, where a grand procession is taken out in honour of Lord Hanuman. The procession is led by a large idol of Lord Hanuman, which is carried by devotees, accompanied by musicians and dancers. The streets are decorated with flowers, and the air is filled with the sound of bhajans and kirtans (devotional songs).
In conclusion, Hanuman Jayanti is a significant festival in Hinduism, which celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman and his exemplary devotion and service to Lord Rama. It is a time for devotees to offer their prayers, seek blessings, and reaffirm their faith in the values that Lord Hanuman represents – courage, loyalty, and service.
