By The Sampadak Express
Hanuman Jayanti, the sacred festival dedicated to the birth of Lord Hanuman, is being celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across India on April 12, 2025. Falling on the Purnima Tithi (full moon day), this auspicious occasion holds special importance in the Hindu calendar. In the eastern Indian state of Odisha, Hanuman Jayanti coincides with Pana Sankranti, also observed as the Odia New Year.
Lord Hanuman, also known as Bajrangbali, Pavan Putra, Anjaneya, and Maruti Nandan, is venerated as a symbol of immense strength, unshakable devotion, courage, selfless service, and spiritual wisdom. His unwavering loyalty to Lord Ram and fearless exploits in the epic Ramayana make him one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.
Celebrations Across the Country
Across the nation, temples devoted to Lord Hanuman are seeing an influx of devotees since early morning. At Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple in Varanasi, a large number of worshippers gathered to seek divine blessings. Devotees observed fasts, performed elaborate pujas, and chanted sacred mantras to invoke the presence and blessings of Lord Hanuman.
In Ayodhya, thousands of devotees thronged the iconic Hanuman Garhi Temple, a place steeped in spiritual lore. Pilgrims also took holy dips in the Saryu River before proceeding to the Ram Temple, reinforcing the deep spiritual bond between Lord Ram and his ardent devotee Hanuman.
Auspicious Timings and Panchang Insights
According to the Hindu Panchang, specific timings are considered more favorable for performing rituals and beginning auspicious tasks on this day:
Rahu Kaal (Inauspicious period): 09:10 AM – 10:46 AM
Amrit Kaal, Abhijit Muhurat, and Vijaya Muhurat are recommended for significant spiritual or personal undertakings.
Disha Shool (Directional Inauspiciousness): It is advised to avoid traveling towards the East on this day.
The presence of Bhadra, another astrological factor, casts a shadow during certain times and should be kept in mind when planning religious ceremonies.
Significance of Hanuman Jayanti
Hanuman Jayanti marks the divine birth of Lord Hanuman, the son of Anjani and Kesari, and is believed to have been born through the blessings of Vayu Dev, the Wind God. This is why he is also called ‘Pavan Putra’, or son of the wind.
From attempting to swallow the sun as a child to burning down Lanka in search of Mata Sita, and carrying the Dronagiri mountain to save Lakshman, the stories of Lord Hanuman’s strength, valor, and unshakable devotion to Lord Ram have inspired generations.
He is not only worshipped as a God but also revered as a Guru, who helps his devotees overcome fear, obstacles, and challenges. Chanting the Hanuman Chalisa is believed to bring courage, peace, and divine protection.
Devotional Practices and Rituals
The festival is marked by elaborate celebrations in temples and homes alike:
Fasting: Many devotees observe a day-long fast, consuming only fruits, milk, or water, and break the fast the following day.
Temple Visits: Worshippers visit Hanuman temples early in the morning, offer flowers, vermilion, mustard oil, boondi, and other sweets.
Chanting and Paath: Devotional recitations like the Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand Paath, Bajrang Baan, and Panchmukhi Hanuman Kavacham are performed both at temples and in households.
Havans and Bhajans: Fire rituals and devotional singing are conducted to invoke Lord Hanuman’s divine presence and blessings.
Storytelling: Parents narrate tales of Hanuman’s bravery and wisdom to children, instilling the values of devotion, strength, and service.
It is also a widely held belief that whenever a Ramayan Paath or Ramcharitmanas recital is organised, a seat is kept vacant for Lord Hanuman—who is believed to be spiritually present wherever the name of Lord Ram is chanted.
Hanuman Jayanti is not just a religious celebration; it is a reminder of resilience, faith, and selfless devotion. In today’s world, where inner strength and clarity are needed more than ever, Lord Hanuman remains a timeless symbol of hope and courage. As devotees across the globe offer their prayers, the spirit of Hanuman continues to inspire millions toward a path of righteousness and spiritual awakening.
For those observing the festival, Hanuman Jayanti serves as a perfect day to invoke divine protection, seek blessings for strength and success, and deepen one’s spiritual connection with the divine.
