Hanuman
The Divine Story
Lord Hanuman, praised in the Hanuman Chalisa as 'Ram-dulare' (beloved of Rama), embodies perfect devotion. The Ramayana glorifies him as 'Atulita-bala-dhama' - the abode of incomparable strength, blessed by his guru Surya Deva with supreme knowledge.
First Manifestation
Hanuman manifested in Treta Yuga as described in the Valmiki Ramayana, born on Chaitra Purnima to serve Lord Rama and demonstrate the highest ideals of bhakti (devotion).
Divine Purpose
To exemplify perfect devotion (Bhakti), serve as the eternal protector of dharma, remove difficulties (Sankat Mochan), and inspire devotees to surrender completely to the divine will.
Spiritual Significance
In the Sundara Kanda, Hanuman exemplifies 'Dasya-bhava' (servant devotion) and 'Rama-bhakti'. Tulsidas in the Hanuman Chalisa calls him 'Sankat-mochan' - the remover of difficulties and 'Mangal-murti' - the embodiment of auspiciousness.
Sacred Stories & Legends
Lanka-gamana - The Great Leap
The Ramayana's Sundara Kanda narrates Hanuman's 'Samudra-langhan' (ocean crossing) to reach Lanka in search of Mata Sita, chanting 'Jai Sri Ram' and carrying Rama's message of hope.
Teaching: Demonstrates 'Guru-bhakti' (devotion to the master) and shows that sincere devotion can overcome any obstacle, as proclaimed in the principle 'Bhaktir-eva-gariyasi'
Sanjeevani-harana - Life-Saving Devotion
The Yuddha Kanda describes how Hanuman lifted the entire Dronagiri mountain to bring the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshmana's life, displaying unwavering commitment to his lord's family.
Teaching: Symbolizes 'Seva-paramo-dharma' (service is the highest dharma) and the devotee's readiness to move mountains for their beloved deity
Divine Family
Divine Consort
Eternal Brahmachari (celibate devotee)
Divine Children
Spiritual children through devotees
Divine Parents
Mata Anjana
Vayu Deva (wind god)
Sacred Festivals
Hanuman Jayanti
Timing: Chaitra Purnima (March/April)
Significance: The Hanuman Purana declares this as the day when divine devotion incarnated on earth. Devotees recite Hanuman Chalisa and seek blessings for 'Bhakti-shakti' (devotional strength)
Mangalwar (Tuesdays)
Timing: Every Tuesday throughout the year
Significance: Sacred to Hanuman as 'Mangal-karak' (bringer of auspiciousness). Devotees offer sindoor and chant 'Jai Bajrang Bali' for protection and strength
Sacred Temples & Holy Shrines
Hanuman Temple, Connaught Place
Location:New Delhi, Delhi, India
Period:Ancient temple, renovated multiple times
Architecture:Traditional North Indian temple architecture
Sacred Features:
Divine Significance: Ancient temple believed to be from the Mahabharata period, one of the most visited Hanuman temples in North India
Mehandipur Balaji Temple
Location:Mehandipur, Rajasthan, India
Period:Ancient temple with recorded history from 1000 years
Architecture:Rajasthani temple architecture
Sacred Features:
Divine Significance: Famous temple for spiritual healing and exorcism, where Hanuman is believed to cure ailments and drive away evil spirits
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Location:Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Period:16th century CE, founded by Tulsidas
Architecture:Traditional Hindu temple architecture
Sacred Features:
Divine Significance: Established by Sant Tulsidas, author of Hanuman Chalisa, this temple is believed to remove all troubles