Hanuman Jayanti

Hanuman Jayanti is observed in memory of Lord Hanuman. Various scriptures mention different dates regarding his birth. Some state that he was born on Chaitra Shukla Purnima, while others, including the Vayu Purana, mention Kartik Krishna Chaturdashi. Since Hanuman was born on a Tuesday, he is also regarded as Mangalkarak.

It is believed that Lord Shiva incarnated as Hanuman to help free living beings from their suffering. Therefore, Hanuman is also known as Sankatmochak Bajrangbali, the remover of obstacles. He was a devoted follower of Lord Rama throughout his life. According to some stories, Hanuman married Surya’s daughter, Suvarchala and worshipping Hanuman and Suvarchala is believed to strengthen the bond between husband and wife.

A popular legend says that Hanuman freed Shani Dev from captivity by Ravana. Grateful for this, Shani Dev granted a boon that those who worship Hanuman would be free from Shani’s negative influence. As a result, reciting or listening to the Hanuman Chalisa, especially on Hanuman Jayanti, is a common practice to ward off Shani’s effects.

According to scriptures, it is believed that chanting Hanuman’s name, worshipping him, or listening to the Hanuman Chalisa protects a person from ghosts, evil spirits, and fear. Therefore, on Hanuman Jayanti, praying to Hanuman with sincere devotion is believed to bring inner strength, courage, and faith.