Hanuman Jayanti is a significant Hindu festival celebrated to honor the birth of Lord Hanuman, the revered monkey god renowned for his strength, devotion, and loyalty. Falling on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra, typically in March or April by the Gregorian calendar, this year it will be observed on April 23rd.

Devotees consider Hanuman Jayanti as an opportunity for spiritual reflection, seeking the blessings of Lord Hanuman for growth and protection. Some believe that Hanuman Ji remains physically present on Earth, hence the festival is often referred to as Hanuman Janmotsav.

This year, according to the Hindu calendar, Chaitra Purnima begins on April 23rd at 03:25 am and ends on April 24th at 05:18 am, with Hanuman Jayanti being celebrated on the 23rd. Particularly, when Hanuman Jayanti falls on a Tuesday or Saturday, its significance is heightened.

Two auspicious muhurats for worship or puja of Bajrang Bali are observed this year:

  • First shubh muhurat: April 23 from 09:03 am to 01:58 pm
  • Second shubh muhurat: April 23 from 08:14 pm to 09:35 pm

The puja vidhi for Hanuman Jayanti involves several steps:

  1. Begin by spreading a red cloth on a platform and placing Hanuman Ji's idol or photo on it.
  2. Mix jasmine oil with red or yellow vermillion and apply it to the idol, followed by adorning Him with a garland of marigold or red flowers.
  3. Light a ghee lamp while remembering Lord Shri Ram, Mother Sita, and Hanuman Ji.
  4. Offer laddus as part of the offering.
  5. Recite Sunderkand or Hanuman Chalisa.
  6. Conclude the puja by performing aarti.
  7. Express devotion by bowing at Hanuman Ji's feet.

Hanuman's life epitomizes unwavering devotion, courage, and selflessness, inspiring devotees to emulate these virtues. His devotion to Lord Rama symbolizes surrendering one's ego and desires to a higher spiritual purpose, emphasizing humility and selfless service.

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According to legend, Hanuman Ji's mother, Anjana, was an Apsara cursed due to her mischievous nature, leading her to be born as a monkey. She married the monkey king Kesari, and after years of intense worship to Lord Shiva and Pawan Dev, they were blessed with Hanuman Ji. He is considered the eleventh incarnation of Lord Shiva and is also known as Pawanputra, embodying all the powers of Pawan Dev.