Hanuman Jayanti: A Day to Celebrate Strength, Kindness, and Helping Others
, by javed techqart, 6 min reading time
Every year, Hindus around the world celebrate a fun festival called Hanuman Jayanti! It's a special day to remember Lord Hanuman, the awesome monkey god. He's super strong, always loved Lord Rama very much, and was always ready to lend a helping hand.
It is like a giant birthday party for Lord Hanuman. His devotees gets together to remember his adventures and celebrate how incredible he was. Hanuman Jayanti is a super fun and happy time. It is all filled with bright colors, delicious treats, and amazing stories. Let's dive into this special festival and see why it is so important for all Hanuman devotees!
The Story of Hanuman
The story of Hanuman comes from the Ramayana. Ramayana is a famous story about Lord Rama and his wife Sita. Hanuman was born to Anjana and Kesari, blessed by the wind god himself, Vayu. Some believe Vayu even helped make Hanuman extra strong and able to fly.
Even as a young monkey, Hanuman showed his amazing skills. He was super strong, could move really fast, and was very smart. But most importantly, he loved Lord Rama very much, who was a special form of the god Vishnu.
The Loyal Friend
Hanuman's story is closely linked to the Ramayana. When Rama's wife Sita was taken away by the evil Ravana, Hanuman offered to help. He bravely went on a dangerous journey to Lanka, Ravana's island home. He faced many dangers, even burning Lanka with his fiery tail, all while searching for Sita.
Hanuman's love for Rama was endless. His strength was amazing. Because of this, Rama was able to defeat the Ravana. Hanuman showed what a true friend is: someone who always believes in you, gives everything they have.
When is Hanuman Jayanti Celebrated?
Hanuman Jayanti falls on the full moon day, called Purnima, in the Hindu month of Chaitra. This typically happens sometime in April. On Hanuman Jayanti, temples dedicated to the hanuman come alive! They are decorated with bright colors and beautiful flowers to make it extra special. Devotees, the people who come to pray, perform puja by offering things Hanuman loves, like fruits, sweets, and a special red powder. Many people also chant the Hanuman Chalisa, a kind of song that tells stories of all his good deeds and how amazing he is.
The celebrations aren't just in temples! In some places, there are parades with colorful statues of Hanuman. People sing and chant together, making the whole day feel happy and exciting. Special foods like laddoos and kesari bhath are made and shared with everyone.
Hanuman Jayanti Date & Time
In 2024, Hanuman Jayanti will happen on Thursday, April 23, 2024. On this day, people celebrate the birth of Lord Hanuman. This celebration falls on the full moon day in the Hindu month of Chaitra. In our regular calendar, this usually falls in March or April. According to stories, Lord Hanuman was born on this special day called Chaitra Purnima.
This year, mark your calendars! Hanuman Jayanti kicks off super early on April 23rd, at 3:25 AM. It wraps up the next day, April 24th, at 5:18 AM. Knowing these timings helps you plan ahead and join the fun if you want to celebrate.
Celebrating Hanuman Jayanti with Fasting and Prayer
Many people choose to observe a fast on Hanuman Jayanti to show their devotion. Here's a guide to the fasting rituals and prayers:
- The Fast: This fast follows the "Tatkalik Tithi" which means observing it during the night.
- Preparation: On the evening before the fast, after remembering Lord Rama, Sita, and Hanuman, sleep on the floor (if comfortable) as a sign of respect.
- Early Morning: Wake up early and again remember Lord Rama, Sita, and Hanuman.
- Before Puja: Take a shower and get dressed in clean clothes.
- Making a Sankalp: Hold water in your hand and make a pledge (sankalp) to observe the fast.
- Setting Up for Puja: Sit near an east-facing idol or image of Lord Hanuman. You can also face east or north while seated.
Significance of Hanuman Jayanti in the Modern World
Even though times have changed, Hanuman Jayanti is still very important. His story teaches us valuable lessons:
- Being Strong: Hanuman was super strong, both in his body and his mind. He shows us how to face problems bravely and never give up.
- Loving Others: His love for Lord Rama was never-ending. He reminds us to be kind and loyal to the people we care about.
- Helping Others: Hanuman always helped Rama. He teaches us to put others first and always help others.
Vedansh Craft - Beautiful Brass Hanuman Statues
Featuring elegant brass hanuman statues from Vedansh Craft, you can invite Hanuman's blessings into your puja space. A handcrafted piece that exudes the power and serenity of the monkey god, each piece embodies the artwork of skilled artisans. Discover your perfect size and style, or gift prosperity and protection to loved ones. Vedansh Craft's collection will bring divinity into your home.
Celebrating Togetherness
Hanuman Jayanti isn't just a party with cake (though there might be some delicious sweets!). It's a high five to Lord Hanuman, the coolest monkey god ever. He was super strong, always stuck by his best friend Rama, and would help anyone in need.
Hanuman Jayanti reminds us that even though he was a god, these are qualities anyone can have. We can all be strong when things get tough, be kind to our friends and family, and be there for people who need a helping hand.
Hanuman Jayanti is a big hug for everyone, no matter your religion. It is a day to celebrate good things – faith, kindness, and the power of friendship. So next Hanuman Jayanti, remember Hanuman's awesome story. Let it inspire you to be the strongest, kindest version of yourself, always ready to lend a hand.
