In 2024, Hanuman Jayanthi will be celebrated on April 23rd. Hanuman was a devoted follower of Lord Rama and helped rescue Sita from the demon Ravana. It is said that for his faithful followers, he provides comfort and removes obstacles.
Devotees wake up early on this day and visit temples to offer prayers and chant Hanuman Chalisa. Some devotees practice fast on this day. Some people organise community meals and donate food or other essentials on this auspicious day. Some of Hanuman's favourite sweets, like the meethi poori, motichoor laddoo, and more, are made as offerings at the temple and distributed as prasad to devotees and visitors too.
Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated with much fervour across India, especially in states like Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. In the south, it is celebrated in the month of Margazhi but in other parts, it's in Vaisakha or Chaitra. The festive mood, devotional hymns and chants, and charity activities make it a spiritually significant occasion for devotees of Lord Hanuman.
Astrological Significance
The auspicious Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Chaitra, according to the Hindu calendar. This day marks the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman, the mighty monkey god known for his strength, courage and devotion. He is revered by Hindus as a symbol of power, perseverance and righteousness. The celebrations reflect the great faith Hindus have in Hanuman's ability to instill bravery and chase away negativity. By celebrating his birth, devotees hope to soak up his noble qualities of selflessness, valor and wisdom.
Religious Significance
The Hindu religion teaches that to receive the blessings and aid of Lord Rama, one must first pray to Hanuman. It is said that Rama will only help those who come to him through Hanuman. This is why Hanuman Jayanthi, the celebration of Hanuman's birth, is an auspicious day to seek the blessings of both Rama and Hanuman. Praying to Hanuman can remove fear and provide divine protection, as he is known as the sankat mochan, or remover of troubles. Reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, 40 verses praising Hanuman, is believed to relieve suffering and grant clarity of mind. Through his selfless devotion and aid to Rama, Hanuman embodies the path to enlightenment.
Bhog Dishes
On the auspicious day of Hanuman Jayanthi, devotees prepare and offer special bhog dishes to Lord Hanuman as prasad. Here are the bhog dishes that are offered to Lord Hanuman on this day.
Panakam
Panakam is a refreshing drink that is an important part of Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations. This sweet and spicy beverage is made by mixing together jaggery, water, ginger, cardamom, and lemon juice. It is offered to Lord Hanuman’s devotees during prayers on this holiday because it is believed to be one of his favourite drinks.
Image credit: Freepik
Neer Mor
Neer Mor, or spiced buttermilk, is an important part of celebrations during Hanuman Jayanthi in South India. Chilled Neer Mor pairs perfectly with the lavish feasts enjoyed for Hanuman Jayanthi, celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman.
Image credit: Freepik
Motichoor Ladoo
Motichoor Ladoo is a popular Indian sweet eaten during Hanuman Jayanthi, the celebration of Lord Hanuman's birthday. Motichoor Laddus represents happiness and good fortune. The little golden balls of Motichoor Ladoo spread joy and blessings among devotees celebrating Lord Hanuman's birthday.
Image credit: Freepik
Imarti
Imarti is a bhog dish that is made during the Hanuman Jayanthi festival in India. It looks like a web made of crispy orange spirals. The imarti gets a beautiful swirly shape and smells nice because of the spices in the syrup. People enjoy eating the crispy and sugary imarti during the Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations.
Image credit: Freepik
Sheera
Sheera is a rich, sweet dessert served during Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations. For worshippers, sheera represents prosperity and abundance, as well as devotion to Lord Hanuman. It is prepared with care and offered to Hanuman's image or idol as a sign of thanks and respect. The sweet treat honours the revered deity and brings festive joy to all who participate in it.
Image credit: Freepik
Besan Laddoo
It is a sweet dessert made from roasted chickpea flour, sugar, clarified butter (ghee), and cardamom powder. Laddu is offered as prasad to the Lord Hanuman during Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations.
Image credit: Freepik
Boondhi
Boondhi is a popular sweet dish offered to Lord Hanuman during Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations. It is made from gram flour dough mixed with edible food colours to create bright and colourful balls.
Image credit: Freepik
The small balls are then deep-fried to cook the dough before being soaked in a sweet sugar syrup. When ready, the sweet and colourful balls are arranged on a plate and offered as prasad to Lord Hanuman.
Gud Chana
Gud Chana is an offering made to Lord Hanuman on the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayanthi. It is offered to Lord Hanuman as it is believed to help alleviate mangal dosha, an astrological configuration thought to cause marital discord.
