Birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman.
Pan-India
Celebrates devotion, strength, and service.
Anjana, an apsara (celestial nymph) cursed to be born on earth as a vanara (monkey), performed intense penance to Lord Shiva for a divine son. Pleased by her devotion, Shiva was born as her son through the agency of Vayu (the wind god). The child was named Hanuman — "the one with a prominent jaw" — after an incident where young Hanuman leapt toward the sun mistaking it for a ripe fruit, and Indra struck his jaw with a thunderbolt.
The gods, remorseful at Vayu's anger over his son's injury, showered Hanuman with boons: invincibility in battle, the power of flight, mastery over the elements, and the ability to change size at will. Yet Hanuman, cursed to forget his powers until reminded at the right moment, grew up as a humble student of Surya (the Sun God).
His devotion to Lord Rama is the defining quality of his existence. When asked to show what was in his heart, Hanuman tore open his chest to reveal Rama and Sita seated within. He is the embodiment of selfless service, courage, and undying devotion.
Partial Fast
Some devotees fast until visiting the temple and offering prayers.
Avoid
non-vegetarian food, alcohol
Allowed
fruits, milk, prasad
North India
Grand celebrations at major Hanuman temples. Processions with Hanuman idols through streets. Wrestling competitions (kushti) are held as Hanuman is the patron deity of wrestlers. Langur (monkey) feeding at temples.
South India
In Tamil Nadu, celebrated as Hanuman Jayanthi during the Margazhi month (December-January), following a different tradition. In Karnataka, Hanuman temples at Hampi hold special celebrations.
East India
Celebrated with temple visits and Hanuman Chalisa recitation. Less elaborate community celebrations but strong personal devotion traditions. Special pujas at roadside Hanuman temples.
West India
In Maharashtra, Hanuman is worshipped as Maruti. Maruti temples hold special celebrations. In Gujarat, connected with physical strength traditions — akharas (gymnasiums) hold special events.
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