Hanuman Janmotsav, commonly known as Hanuman Jayanti, is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman with great devotion and reverence. This festival is observed in different regions of India either on the full moon day of the Chaitra month or the Kartik month, depending on local traditions. On this day, devotees express their devotion and love for Lord Hanuman through prayers, rituals, and offerings.
Significance of Hanuman Janmotsav
Lord Hanuman, the devoted disciple of Lord Rama and son of Anjani, is revered as a symbol of strength, devotion, and courage. His life is a timeless example of unwavering faith, selfless service, and dedication to duty. On this auspicious day, temples and homes are decorated, and devotees recite Hanuman Chalisa, sing devotional songs, and engage in spiritual practices to honor him.
Puja Method
The traditional method for performing puja on Hanuman Jayanti is as follows:
- Cleanliness and Decoration: Clean the puja area thoroughly and decorate it with flowers, lamps, and rangoli. Place the idol or picture of Lord Hanuman in a clean and prominent spot.
- Prayer and Mantra: Recite Hanuman Chalisa, Sugriv Chalisa, and Bajrang Baan. Chanting these mantras helps instill mental peace and spiritual strength.
- Morning Aarti: Perform a morning aarti by lighting a lamp. Singing bhajans and hymns during aarti generates positive energy in the surroundings.
- Offerings: Offer fruits, sweets, and sacred leaves (especially Peepal or Ashwattha leaves) to seek the blessings of the Lord.
How to Offer a Chola
Offering a chola (clothing) to Lord Hanuman is considered highly auspicious on this festival. The procedure is as follows:
- Choosing the Chola: Red or saffron-colored cloth is considered most suitable as it symbolizes energy, courage, and power.
- Preparation: Clean the chola with a fresh cloth, fold it neatly, and keep it ready.
- Offering: Place the chola before the Hanuman idol while chanting the mantra “Om Hanumate Namah” with devotion and concentration.
- Aarti and Bhajan: After offering the chola, perform aarti, sing bhajans, and complete the puja with devotion.
Celebrating Hanuman Janmotsav and offering a chola symbolizes not only devotion to the Lord but also inspires courage, loyalty, and positive energy in the devotee’s heart. The festival embodies the principles of dharma, strength, and truth in one’s life.