By exploreodisha.in 
Introduction
Hanuman Jayanti is a sacred Hindu festival celebrated to honor the birth of Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hindu mythology. Known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, immense strength, and wisdom, Hanuman is a symbol of courage, selflessness, and righteousness. This auspicious day is observed by millions of devotees across India and other parts of the world, who seek his blessings for strength, protection, and success.
Date and Timing of Hanuman Jayanti 2025
In 2025, Hanuman Jayanti will be celebrated on Sunday, April 13. The festival falls on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Chaitra month, according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
The auspicious timings for Hanuman Jayanti in 2025 are as follows:
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Purnima Tithi Begins: 10:45 AM on April 12, 2025
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Purnima Tithi Ends: 08:10 AM on April 13, 2025
(Note: Timings may vary based on local Panchang calculations.)
Significance of Hanuman Jayanti
Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated on different dates across India. In most parts of the country, it falls on the full moon day (Purnima) of Chaitra month, which usually falls in March or April according to the Hindu lunar calendar. However, in some states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Hanuman Jayanti is observed during Margashirsha Amavasya, while in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, it is celebrated on Hanuman Vijayadashami, marking the day he met Lord Rama.
Devotees observe this festival by visiting Hanuman temples, offering flowers, sweets, and reciting hymns like the Hanuman Chalisa, Sundara Kanda, and Bajrang Baan. Many also observe fasts and perform special rituals, believing that invoking Hanuman’s name removes obstacles and bestows strength, wisdom, and divine protection.
The Mythological History of Lord Hanuman
Birth and Divine Origins
According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman is the son of Kesari, a vanara (monkey chief), and Anjana, a celestial nymph. Due to a curse, Anjana was born as a monkey and was later blessed by Lord Shiva that she would give birth to an incarnation of his divine energy.
It is believed that when King Dasharatha of Ayodhya performed the Putrakameshti Yagna to have children, a portion of the divine kheer (sacred pudding) meant for his queens was carried away by the wind god Vayu and placed in Anjana’s hands. After consuming it, she gave birth to Hanuman, who was thus also known as Vayuputra (Son of the Wind God).
Hanuman’s Childhood and His Strength
As a child, Hanuman was extremely mischievous and full of divine energy. One of the most famous incidents from his childhood was when he mistook the rising sun for a ripe fruit and tried to swallow it. Indra, the king of gods, struck Hanuman with his thunderbolt (Vajra), causing him to fall unconscious. This angered Vayu, who withdrew all air from the world. Realizing their mistake, the gods restored Hanuman’s life and blessed him with immense strength, wisdom, and the ability to change his form at will.
Hanuman’s Devotion to Lord Rama
Hanuman is best known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, as depicted in the epic Ramayana. When Lord Rama’s wife, Sita, was abducted by Ravana, Hanuman played a crucial role in finding her in Lanka. With the help of Sugriva and his army, Hanuman leaped across the ocean, met Sita in Ashoka Vatika, and conveyed Lord Rama’s message to her.
His heroic deeds during the battle against Ravana included:
- Setting Lanka on fire: After being captured and his tail set ablaze, Hanuman used his divine strength to burn Ravana’s kingdom.
- Bringing the Sanjeevani herb: When Lakshmana was severely injured in battle, Hanuman lifted the entire Dronagiri mountain to ensure the right medicinal herb was delivered in time.
- Defeating powerful demons: He fought several demons, including Ravana’s son, Akshay Kumar, demonstrating his unmatched combat skills.
Symbolism and Teachings from Hanuman’s Life
Hanuman is more than just a warrior; he embodies devotion, humility, and strength. His life teaches important lessons such as:
- Selfless service: Hanuman dedicated his life to Lord Rama, expecting nothing in return.
- Fearlessness and strength: He faced mighty demons and challenges with unwavering courage.
- Wisdom and intelligence: His ability to strategize and solve problems makes him a revered figure of intellect.
How Hanuman Jayanti is Celebrated
Hanuman Jayanti is observed with various religious and cultural rituals across different regions of India, On Hanuman Jayanti, devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and visit temples dedicated to Hanuman. Here’s how the festival is celebrated:
1. Temple Visits and Special Pujas
Devotees visit Hanuman temples early in the morning to offer prayers, chant Hanuman Chalisa, Ramayana verses and perform Aarti. Special abhishek (ritual bathing) of Hanuman idols is done with milk, ghee, honey, and holy water. Offering sindoor (vermilion), flowers, and sweets like laddoos.
2. Fasting and Devotional Singing
Many devotees observe a fast on this day, consuming only fruits and milk. Bhajan and kirtan sessions dedicated to Lord Hanuman are organized in temples and homes, filling the atmosphere with divine energy.
3. Reading of Hanuman Chalisa and Sundara Kanda
Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, a 40-verse hymn praising Hanuman’s virtues, is considered highly auspicious on this day. Many also read chapters from the Sundara Kanda of the Ramayana, which narrates Hanuman’s heroic journey to Lanka to find Goddess Sita.
4. Charity and Helping the Needy
Since Hanuman represents selfless service, many devotees engage in acts of charity by donating food, clothes, and money to the poor. Feeding monkeys, cows, and birds is also a common practice on this day.
5. Processions and Cultural Events
In several parts of India, grand processions with Hanuman idols, religious flags, and devotional singing take place. These processions are especially vibrant in states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Conclusion
Hanuman Jayanti is not just a festival; it is a reminder of the virtues of strength, faith, and devotion. Lord Hanuman’s life continues to inspire millions to face life’s challenges with courage, serve selflessly, and remain humble despite immense power. His blessings are sought for protection, wisdom, and success in all endeavors.
Celebrating Hanuman Jayanti with devotion and sincerity brings peace, positivity, and divine energy into one’s life.
Jai Hanuman!
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