Hanuman Jayanti

There are differing opinions regarding the date of Hanuman Jayanti. Based on texts like Utsavasindhu, Vrataratnakara, and Valmiki Ramayana, it falls on Kartik Krishna Chaturdashi. On the other hand, some scholars consider it to be on Chaitra Shukla Purnima. In popular tradition, Chaitra Shukla Purnima is more widely accepted. Therefore, it is challenging to determine a single definite date. People may choose the date based on their beliefs.

As Hanuman ji's birth is believed to have occurred at night, the tithi that overlaps with the evening should be considered.

Story of Hanuman Ji's Birth

A popular legend relates to Hanuman ji's birth. King Dasharatha performed a yajna to obtain offspring. As a result of the yajna, he received three portions of a sacred offering, which he gave to his three queens to consume.

However, one queen carelessly left her portion somewhere. A kite (eagle) picked it up and dropped it in a place where Anjana Devi (Hanuman ji's mother) was present. Anjana Devi consumed this portion, leading to Hanuman ji’s birth.

Valmiki Ramayana describes how Hanuman ji leapt into the sky at birth to grab the Sun:

‘Yameva divasam hyesha graheetum bhaskaram plutah,
Tameva divasam Rahur jighriksati divakaram.’

This verse indicates that on the day Hanuman ji leapt to catch the Sun, Rahu was also attempting to eclipse it. This suggests that the day after Hanuman ji’s birth was Amavasya, as solar eclipses occur only on Amavasya.

Observances on Hanuman Jayanti

On this day, devotees observe fasts, perform pujas, and perform Hanumanji’s abhisheka with Panchamrita. During the worship, oil and vermilion are essential for Hanuman ji’s adornment. Offerings should include soaked or roasted chickpeas (chana), jaggery (gud), gram flour (besan) ladoos, or boondi (motichoor) ladoos.

Hanuman ji is considered a symbol of strength and the patron deity of wrestling enthusiasts (Mallavidya practitioners). Hence, demonstrating physical strength through exercise is an important tradition on this day.

Symbolism of Offerings

• Oil and Vermilion: Symbolize Hanuman ji's divine form.
• Chickpeas, Jaggery, and Gram Flour: These are particularly significant as they are considered dear to Hanuman ji and the vanara (monkey) race.

In Mathura and Vrindavan, monkeys are still fed chickpeas and jaggery.

Ayurveda Insights

• Chickpeas: Cool, light, and help reduce pitta and kapha. They also aid in digestion. Soaked or green chickpeas are softer, tastier, and healthier.
• Jaggery: Provides energy, balances vata (air element), and aids digestion.
• Combination of Chickpeas and Jaggery: Balances each other's properties, enhancing their benefits.

Thus, these offerings are considered appropriate for Hanuman ji's naivedya. Gram flour ladoos and boondi share similar qualities, making them equally suitable.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi