On April 12, 2025, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated across India, marking the birth of Lord Hanuman, the devoted follower of Lord Shri Ram and son of Mata Anjani. This auspicious occasion, falling on Chaitra Purnima, is a time for devotees to engage in fervent worship and recitation of sacred texts dedicated to Hanumanji.
Hanuman, revered as Bajrangbali, Sankatmochan, and Pavanputra, is considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva. His birth is believed to have occurred on this day, and it is said that worshipping him with sincerity can eliminate all sorrows and fulfill desires. As per tradition, devotees adorn Hanumanji's idol with red cloth, flowers, and offer various delicacies including boondi, laddus, and coconut to please him.
Special events and Maha Puja will take place in Hanuman temples, with Maha Aarti scheduled for the afternoon. The day is marked by the collective recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa, a revered text composed by Goswami Tulsidas, which is believed to bring strength, courage, and the removal of obstacles.
According to religious beliefs, the recitation of Hanuman Chalisa on this day is particularly beneficial. It is said that chanting this sacred text can alleviate mental, spiritual, and emotional distress, granting peace of mind and strength to devotees. The lyrics of the Hanuman Chalisa, which begins with the invocation to Lord Hanuman, emphasize his virtues and powers:
“Shri Guru Charan Saroj Raj, Nij Man Mukur Sudhari. Barnaun Raghubar Bimal Jas, Jo Dayaku Phal Chari.”
This year, a historic event is set to unfold as millions of devotees plan to recite the Hanuman Chalisa together, an initiative named "Call of Sanatanis." This unprecedented gathering aims to unite devotees worldwide, with the main organizer, MLA Rakesh Pratap Singh from Goriganj, urging people to join the recitation from their homes or temples.
The event is being promoted extensively on social media with hashtags like #GlobalHanumanChalisa, #HanumanWith10Crore, and #हनुमान_चालीसा. This digital outreach aims to connect devotees not only in India but also among the international Indian community, reinforcing the cultural significance of Hanuman Jayanti.
Additionally, the day is marked by special rituals and practices. It is believed that reading the Hanuman Chalisa 108 times can yield special benefits. Devotees are encouraged to engage in prayers and mantras, including:
“Om Anjaneyaya Vidmahe Vayuputraya Dheemahi, Tanno Hanuman Prachodayat.”
The timing for rituals is crucial, with auspicious moments identified for worship. The Purnima tithi begins at 3:21 AM and ends at 5:51 AM on April 13, 2025. Rituals performed during this time are believed to be particularly fruitful.
In homes and temples, the atmosphere is filled with devotion as people fast and perform rituals. The act of reciting the Hanuman Chalisa is not only seen as a form of worship but also as a means to seek blessings for strength and wisdom. The text's verses highlight Hanuman's unparalleled strength and his role as a protector against negativity:
“Nase Rog Hare Sab Peera, Japat Nirantar Hanumat Beera.”
As devotees gather in temples or join online, the collective voice of millions reciting the Hanuman Chalisa is expected to resonate powerfully, creating a moment of spiritual unity and strength.
Moreover, the significance of Hanuman in Hindu mythology is profound. He is one of the eight immortals, believed to be present on Earth even today, aiding devotees in overcoming challenges and fears. His presence during significant events, such as the recitation of the Ramayana, is a testament to his enduring legacy.
On this day, it is customary to offer special foods to Hanumanji, including sweets and fruits, while also performing rituals that involve lighting lamps and burning incense. These offerings symbolize devotion and the desire to seek Hanuman’s blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity.
In conclusion, Hanuman Jayanti is not just a celebration of Hanuman’s birth; it is a day of spiritual renewal and collective devotion. As millions come together in prayer, the essence of unity and faith shines brightly, reinforcing the cultural and religious significance of this revered deity.
