Hanuman Jayanthi, a sacred festival commemorating the birth of Lord Hanuman, is a significant event in the Hindu calendar. Observed on the full moon day of Chaitra, the first month of the Hindu lunar calendar, Hanuman Jayanthi is a celebration of devotion, strength, and unwavering dedication. In this article, we will delve into the significance of Hanuman Jayanthi, explore fascinating facts about Lord Hanuman, and highlight some of the most revered Hanuman temples.

The Legend of Lord Hanuman

Lord Hanuman, the monkey god, is an ardent devotee of Lord Rama and a central character in the epic Ramayana. Born to Anjana, a celestial nymph, and Kesari, a monkey king, Hanuman is blessed with extraordinary strength, agility, and devotion. His unwavering loyalty to Lord Rama and his unrelenting quest to rescue Sita, Rama’s consort, from the clutches of Ravana, the demon king, have made him a revered figure in Hindu mythology.

Significance of Hanuman Jayanthi

Hanuman Jayanthi is a celebration of Lord Hanuman’s birth and his unwavering dedication to Lord Rama. The festival holds great significance for several reasons:

1. Devotion and Loyalty: Hanuman Jayanthi is a testament to the power of devotion and loyalty. Lord Hanuman’s selfless dedication to Lord Rama is an inspiration to millions, highlighting the importance of surrendering one’s ego and desires for a higher purpose.

2. Strength and Courage: Lord Hanuman’s extraordinary strength and courage are a reminder that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome with determination and faith.

3. Protection and Guardianship: As a celestial guardian, Lord Hanuman is revered for his protective powers. Hanuman Jayanthi is a celebration of his unwavering commitment to safeguarding those who seek his protection.

Fascinating Facts about Lord Hanuman

1. Birth and Parentage: Lord Hanuman was born to Anjana, a celestial nymph, and Kesari, a monkey king. His birth is said to have been facilitated by the wind god, Vayu.

2. Education and Wisdom: Lord Hanuman is said to have been educated by the sun god, Surya. He is revered for his wisdom, intelligence, and knowledge of the Vedas.

3. Strength and Agility: Lord Hanuman’s extraordinary strength and agility are legendary. He is said to have lifted and carried an entire mountain, the Sanjeevani Parvat, to save Lakshmana, Rama’s brother.

4. Devotion and Surrender: Lord Hanuman’s devotion to Lord Rama is unwavering. He is said to have surrendered his ego and desires to serve Rama, exemplifying the true spirit of devotion and surrender.

Famous hanuman temples in India 

1. Hanuman Temple, Varanasi

Located in the sacred city of Varanasi, the Hanuman Temple is one of the oldest and most revered Hanuman temples in India. Situated near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, this temple is believed to have been built during the 18th century. The temple’s presiding deity is a majestic image of Hanuman, standing tall with his hands folded in devotion.

Significance: The Hanuman Temple in Varanasi is considered a sacred spot for devotees, who believe that praying here can grant them strength, courage, and protection. The temple’s proximity to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple makes it an essential stopover for pilgrims visiting the city.

2. Hanuman Temple, Tirumala

Perched atop the sacred hills of Tirumala, the Hanuman Temple is a popular pilgrimage site, attracting millions of devotees each year. This temple is believed to have been built during the 15th century and is dedicated to the worship of Hanuman as the protector of Lord Venkateswara.

Significance: The Hanuman Temple in Tirumala is revered for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Devotees believe that praying here can grant them protection, strength, and blessings from Lord Hanuman.

3. Hanuman Temple, Hampi

Located in the ancient city of Hampi, the Hanuman Temple is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India’s Vijayanagara Empire. This temple is believed to have been built during the 15th century and features a stunning image of Hanuman, standing tall with his hands folded in devotion.

Significance: The Hanuman Temple in Hampi is a significant historical landmark, showcasing the architectural and artistic prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire. Devotees believe that praying here can grant them strength, courage, and protection.

4. Hanuman Temple, Shimla

Perched atop a hill in Shimla, the Hanuman Temple is a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike. This temple is believed to have been built during the 19th century and features a stunning image of Hanuman, standing tall with his hands folded in devotion.

Significance: The Hanuman Temple in Shimla is revered for its breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas. Devotees believe that praying here can grant them peace, tranquility, and protection from Lord Hanuman.

5. Bajrang Bali Temple, Delhi

Located in the heart of Delhi, the Bajrang Bali Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to the worship of Hanuman. This temple is believed to have been built during the 19th century and features a stunning image of Hanuman, standing tall with his hands folded in devotion.

Significance: The Bajrang Bali Temple in Delhi is a significant cultural landmark, showcasing the devotion and loyalty of Hanuman’s followers. Devotees believe that praying here can grant them strength, courage, and protection from Lord Hanuman.

6. Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple, Rameswaram

Located on the sacred island of Rameswaram, the Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to the worship of Hanuman. This temple is believed to have been built during the 16th century and features a stunning image of Hanuman with five faces.

Significance: The Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple in Rameswaram is revered for its unique architecture and stunning image of Hanuman. Devotees believe that praying here can grant them protection, strength, and blessings from Lord Hanuman.

7. Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Temple, Sarangpur

Located in the town of Sarangpur, the Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to the worship of Hanuman. This temple is believed to have been built during the 19th century and features a stunning image of Hanuman, standing tall with his hands folded in devotion.

Significance: The Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Temple in Sarangpur is revered for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. Devotees believe that praying here can grant them protection, strength, and blessings from Lord Hanuman.

Conclusion:

The revered temples of Hanuman scattered throughout India stand as a poignant testament to the unwavering devotion and unshakeable loyalty of his followers. Each of these sacred sites boasts a unique history, stunning architecture, and an profound spiritual significance.

As we joyously celebrate Hanuman Jayanthi, commemorating the birth of the revered Lord Hanuman, we are reminded of the transformative power of selfless service, unyielding loyalty, and unconditional surrender. May the shining example of Lord Hanuman’s unwavering dedication to Lord Rama inspire us to embody these timeless values in our own lives, guiding us toward a path of unshakeable righteousness, profound compassion, and enlightened wisdom.