Hanuman Jayanthi – Date, Importance, Pooja, Fasting Rules & Common Doubts
Hanuman Jayanthi is a sacred Hindu festival that symbolizes the birthday of Lord Hanuman, the embodiment of strength, devotion, courage, and selfless service. Devotees worship Lord Hanuman on this day to seek protection from fear, success in life, good health, and mental strength.
Hanuman Jayanthi falls on different dates across various states of India and is celebrated differently, often creating confusion among devotees.
Hanuman Jayanthi Date – Why There Is Confusion
Some common searches include:
- Is it Hanuman Jayanthi today?
- Hanuman Jayanthi this Saturday?
The confusion arises because different calendars and traditions are followed in different parts of India.
Different Dates Followed
North India:
Hanuman Jayanthi is celebrated on Chaitra Pournami,
the full moon day in March–April.
Tamil Nadu & parts of South India:
It is observed during Margazhi Amavasya (December)
or based on the Moola Nakshatra.
Both celebrations are dedicated to Lord Hanuman and are spiritually significant.
Significance of Hanuman Jayanthi
Hanuman Jayanthi represents:
- Undying devotion to Lord Rama
- Strength combined with humility
- Fearlessness and discipline
- Control over ego and desires
Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Hanuman on this day helps to:
- Remove fear and negative energies
- Enhance physical and mental strength
- Overcome obstacles and enemies
- Gain courage, confidence, and focus
How Hanuman Jayanthi Is Celebrated
- Early morning prayers
- Hanuman Abhishekam in temples
- Recitation of Hanuman Chalisa
- Offering flowers, fruits, and garlands
- Fasting or partial fasting
Many devotees visit Anjaneya (Hanuman) temples, while others perform pooja at home with devotion.
Hanuman Jayanthi Pooja – Simple Method
- Clean the pooja area and light a lamp
- Place a Hanuman idol or picture
- Offer flowers, fruits, and betel leaves
- Chant Hanuman Chalisa or Hanuman mantras
- Conclude with aarti and prayers
Sincerity and devotion are considered more important than elaborate rituals.
Hanuman Jayanthi Fasting Rules
Many devotees observe fasting on this day.
Common Practices
- Some fast completely until evening
- Some consume fruits and milk
- Some eat a simple vegetarian meal after pooja
Food Rules
- Vegetarian food only
- Avoid alcohol and non-vegetarian food
- Maintain purity in thoughts and actions
Fasting is optional but believed to enhance spiritual benefits.
Hanuman Chalisa & Mantras
Why Hanuman Chalisa Matters
- Protects from fear and negative energies
- Strengthens the mind and body
- Brings peace and confidence
Devotees often chant the Hanuman Chalisa 11 or 108 times on Hanuman Jayanthi.
Popular Mantra
Om Namo Bhagavathe Hanumate Namah
Temple Celebrations on Hanuman Jayanthi
- Special abhishekam
- Alankaram (decoration)
- Chanting of Rama Nama and Hanuman Chalisa
- Annadhanam (free food distribution)
Famous Anjaneya temples witness heavy crowds on this auspicious day.
Annadhanam & Charity on Hanuman Jayanthi
Offering food or donating to the needy on Hanuman Jayanthi is considered highly auspicious.
- Feeding the poor is believed to please Lord Hanuman
- Charity helps remove obstacles and past karmas
- Many temples and organizations conduct free annadhanam
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women worship Lord Hanuman?
Yes, women can worship Lord Hanuman with devotion.
Is fasting compulsory?
No, fasting is not mandatory.
Can we eat non-veg on Hanuman Jayanthi?
Most devotees avoid non-vegetarian food on this day.
Can Hanuman Chalisa be read at night?
Yes, it can be read at any time with devotion.
Why Hanuman Jayanthi Is Spiritually Important
Hanuman Jayanthi is not just a festival but a spiritual reminder to remain humble despite strength, serve without expectation, and live a disciplined and fearless life.
Worshipping Lord Hanuman on this day is believed to ward off evil forces, remove negative influences, and bring success, protection, and inner peace.