Hanuman Jayanthi festival significance , why its celebrated on different dates

Hanuman Jayanti is a revered festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, an ardent devotee of Lord Rama and a symbol of strength, devotion, and perseverance. While the essence of the festival remains consistent, the date of its observance varies across different regions of India. This variation is deeply rooted in regional traditions, cultural practices, and interpretations of ancient scriptures. In this detailed article, we will explore the reasons behind these differences and provide insights into the origins and significance of Hanuman Jayanti.

Significance

Hanuman Jayanti holds immense significance in Hinduism. It commemorates the birth of Lord Hanuman, who is revered for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, his immense strength, and his role in the epic Ramayana. Hanuman is worshipped as a deity who embodies courage, selfless service, and loyalty. Devotees celebrate Hanuman Jayanti to seek his blessings, strength, and protection from evil.

The celebration of Hanuman Jayanti on different dates in various regions can be attributed to several factors:

1. Regional Calendars: India is a diverse country with multiple cultural practices and regional calendars. The differences in these calendars lead to variations in the observance of Hanuman Jayanti.

   - Maharashtra: In Maharashtra, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Chaitra, which usually falls in March or April. This date is derived from the traditional Hindu lunar calendar followed in this region.
   
   - Tamil Nadu and Kerala: In these southern states, Hanuman Jayanti is observed during the Hanuman Vratam period in the Margazhi month (December-January). This variation is due to the regional Tamil and Malayalam calendars, which have different reckoning of months.
   
   - Andhra Pradesh and Telangana: In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated for 41 days, starting from Chaitra Purnima and ending on the tenth day after Krishna Paksha in the Vaishakha month. This extended celebration is unique to these regions and is linked to local traditions and beliefs.

2. Interpretations of Scriptures: Different Hindu communities have their own interpretations of the Puranas and other scriptures, leading to variations in the date of Hanuman's birth anniversary. The scriptures provide multiple references to Hanuman's birth, allowing for diverse interpretations.

   - Valmiki Ramayana: The Valmiki Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic, mentions that Hanuman's birth coincides with Chaitra Purnima. This is why many regions celebrate Hanuman Jayanti during this period.
   
   - South Indian Traditions: Some South Indian texts and traditions mark Hanuman's birth on a different date, leading to celebrations in the Margazhi month or the 41-day observance in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

3. Local Traditions and Beliefs: Local customs and traditions play a significant role in determining the date of festivals. These customs are often passed down through generations and are deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the region.

   - Folk Beliefs: In some regions, folk beliefs and local legends influence the date of Hanuman Jayanti. These beliefs are often based on historical events, mythological stories, and astrological calculations unique to the area.
   
   - Community Practices: Different communities within the same region might observe Hanuman Jayanti on different dates, reflecting their unique cultural heritage and practices.

Origin

The origin of Hanuman Jayanti is rooted in ancient Hindu mythology and scriptures. According to the Ramayana, Hanuman was born to Anjana and Kesari, and his birth was a blessing from the wind god Vayu. Hanuman's role in the Ramayana, where he assists Lord Rama in rescuing Sita from the demon king Ravana, is a central theme in Hindu mythology.

Hanuman's birth is also celebrated in various regional texts and folklore, each with its own unique narrative. The diversity in these stories contributes to the different dates of Hanuman Jayanti across regions.
 

Rituals Followed on Hanuman Jayanti

Despite the variation in dates, the rituals and practices followed on Hanuman Jayanti are similar across regions:

1. Temple Visits: Devotees visit Hanuman temples to offer prayers and participate in special poojas (rituals) conducted on this day. The temples are often decorated with flowers and lights, creating a festive atmosphere.

2. Abhishekam (Ritual Bath): The idol of Lord Hanuman is bathed with water, milk, honey, and other sacred substances. This ritual is believed to purify the idol and invoke the deity's blessings.

3. Chanting and Recitation: Devotees chant the Hanuman Chalisa, a hymn in praise of Lord Hanuman, and other Hanuman mantras. Reciting the Ramayana and other sacred texts that mention Hanuman's deeds is also common.

4. Fasting (Vrat): Many devotees observe a fast on Hanuman Jayanti, refraining from consuming food and water until they have offered their prayers. The fast is believed to purify the mind and body, allowing devotees to focus on their spiritual practices.

5. Offering Prasad: Various offerings, including fruits, sweets, and flowers, are made to Lord Hanuman. After the pooja, these offerings are distributed as prasad (blessed food) to devotees.

6. Cultural Programs: In some regions, cultural programs, including devotional songs, dances, and plays depicting the life and deeds of Hanuman, are organized to celebrate the festival. These programs help in spreading the stories of Hanuman and reinforcing his values.

Special Foods Prepared During Hanuman Jayanti

Certain foods are specially prepared and offered to Lord Hanuman on this auspicious day. These foods are considered sacred and are later distributed as prasad to devotees. Some of the popular dishes include:

• Boondi Laddoo: Sweet balls made from gram flour and sugar, often offered as prasad.
• Vada: Savory fried snacks made from lentils, commonly prepared in South India.
• Panjiri: A traditional North Indian sweet made from roasted wheat flour, ghee, and sugar.
• Halwa: A sweet dish made from semolina, ghee, and sugar, often flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts.
• Fruit Offerings: Various fruits, including bananas, are offered as they are believed to be a favorite of Lord Hanuman.
• Sundal: A South Indian dish made from boiled chickpeas or other legumes, tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut.

 

Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations in Bengaluru

Special rituals, including Pampa Puja and Hanuman Puja, are performed. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deity, and apply sindoor (vermilion) to Hanuman's idol and themselves as a symbol of strength and energy. Chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarakanda, and other Hanuman hymns is an integral part of the celebrations. Reciting these scriptures is believed to invoke Hanuman's blessings and protection.

During Hanuman Jayanthi in Bengaluru, several popular destinations attract devotees and visitors. Here are some of the key places:

• Ragigudda Anjaneya Temple - Located in Jayanagar, this temple is situated on a hillock and offers a beautiful view of the city. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is known for its serene environment and spiritual significance.
• Sri Prasanna Anjaneya Temple - This temple, located in Mahalakshmipuram Layout, features a gigantic idol of Lord Hanuman, 22 feet in height and 16 feet in width. It is famous for the "Benne-Alankara" (Butter decoration) ritual, where the idol is decorated with butter donated by devotees.
• Gali Anjaneya Swamy Temple - Situated on Mysuru Road, this temple is known for its tall tower and spacious inner sanctum. It is believed to be over 600 years old and is a significant spiritual center.
• Sri Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Swami Temple - Located in Girinagar, Banashankari, this temple is renowned for its splendid architecture and powerful spiritual energy. It is a popular destination for devotees seeking blessings and performing rituals.
• Ramanjaneya Gudda Temple - Also known as Hanumanthana Gudda, this temple is located in Hanumanth Nagar and features statues of Lord Rama and Hanuman hugging each other. It is a peaceful spot for devotees to visit and offer prayers.
• Shree Maruti Saidham Temple - Situated on the Tumkur highway, this temple boasts a 36-foot-tall Hanuman statue. The serene environment and magnificent statue make it a popular destination for Hanuman Jayanthi celebrations.

The celebration of Hanuman Jayanti on different dates across India is a testament to the rich cultural diversity and deep-rooted traditions of the country. While the essence of the festival remains the same—honoring the birth and virtues of Lord Hanuman—the variations in its observance reflect the unique regional practices and interpretations of ancient scriptures. Understanding these differences enriches our appreciation of Hanuman Jayanti and highlights the inclusive nature of Hinduism, which embraces a multitude of traditions and beliefs.