In the Spirit of Seva: Hanuman Jayanti and Acts of Service

Hanuman Jayanti is a Hindu festival celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Hanuman, the beloved devotee of Lord Rama and an epitome of strength, devotion, and courage. It falls on the full moon day of the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra, which commonly happens in March or April.

Devotees across the world observe Hanuman Jayanti with great enthusiasm and reverence by offering prayers, fasting, and reciting hymns dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This year Hanuman Jayanti will be celebrated on 23 April 2024. The following are four ways to worship Lord Hanuman to seek his blessings on Hanuman Jayanti 2024.

1. Recitation Of Hanuman Chalisa

One of the most popular and effective ways of worshiping Master Hanuman is by reciting the Hanuman Chalisa. Hanuman Chalisa is a hymn composed by the saint Tulsidas in the Awadhi language, devoted to praising the virtues and exploits of Master Hanuman. It comprises 40 stanzas or chaupais, each portraying the different qualities, deeds, and divine traits of Hanuman. Devotees frequently recite the Hanuman Chalisa in the morning or evening, preferably after taking a bath and wearing clean clothes. They sit before a picture or idol of Lord Hanuman, light incense sticks offer flowers, and then chant the Hanuman Chalisa with devotion and truthfulness. It is believed that reciting the Hanuman Chalisa with faith and devotion can invoke the blessing of Lord Hanuman and grant protection from evil forces, obstacles, and adversities in life.

2. Offering Prayers At Hanuman Temples

One more common way to worship Lord Hanuman on Hanuman Jayanti is by visiting Hanuman temples and offering prayers and offerings. Devotees rush to Hanuman temples, particularly the well-known ones like the Hanuman Mandir at Connaught Spot in Delhi, the Shri Hanuman Mandir in Varanasi, and the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Sanctuary in Patna, among others. Devotees offer flowers, garlands, vermilion, sweets, and fruits to the idol of Lord Hanuman, alongside reciting hymns and mantras devoted to him. They frequently perform aarti (ritualistic worship with lighted lamps) and circumambulate the temple premises as a mark of reverence and devotion. Visiting Hanuman temples on Hanuman Jayanti is believed to bring blessings of strength, courage, and protection from harm and danger.

3. Fasting And Observing Vrat

Fasting (vrat) is a common practice observed by devotees on Hanuman Jayanti as a mark of devotion and penance. Many devotees observe a strict fast throughout the day, abstaining from consuming grains, non-vegetarian food, and alcohol. Some may even observe a partial fast by consuming only fruits, milk, and water. Devotees believe that observing a fast on Hanuman Jayanti purifies the mind and body and strengthens their devotion to Lord Hanuman. It is also believed to bestow blessings of good health, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Some devotees may also perform special rituals and prayers during the fasting period to seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman for their well-being and success in life.

4. Seva (Service) and Kindness gestures

An important part of worshipping Lord Hanuman is performing service (seva) and generosity towards others. Devotees accept that serving others and aiding those in need is a type of love and dedication to Lord Hanuman, who embodies selflessness and service. On Hanuman Jayanti, fans frequently take part in different charitable activities, for example, taking care of poor people and needy, distributing food and dress to the underprivileged, sorting out blood donation camps, and taking an interest in community service projects. By serving others with empathy and love, devotees try to emulate the qualities of Lord Hanuman and accept his favors for their sacrificial acts.

Consequently, Hanuman Jayanti is a promising event for devotees to adore Lord Hanuman and look for his favors for strength, courage, and protection. By reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, visiting the Hanuman temple, observing fasting, and performing service to poor and needy people, enthusiasts express their dedication and respect to Lord Hanuman and accept his divine beauty and blessings on this auspicious day