Hanuman Janmotsav is an awe-inspiring festival that celebrates the divine birth of Lord Hanuman. This year, the festival will be celebrated on the 6th of April 2023.
Hanuman Janmotsav 2023: Dates, Time, Significance
Hanuman, also known as Anjaneya or Maruti, is considered one of the most powerful and revered deities in Hinduism. He is the symbol of strength, devotion, and humility. It commemorates the birth of Lord Hanuman, the powerful and revered monkey god. The festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Chaitra, which falls in the month of March or April. This year, Hanuman Janmotsav will be celebrated on 6th April 2023.
The Birth of Pavanputra Hanuman!
Lord Hanuman, also known as Pavanputra Hanuman, is a revered deity in Hinduism, known for his immense strength, courage, and devotion. The birth of Lord Hanuman is a fascinating tale that is recounted in many Hindu scriptures.
Divine Parents of Lord Hanuman
Lord Hanuman was born to Anjana, a beautiful apsara who was cursed by a sage to be born as a monkey, and Kesari, the king of the monkeys. According to legend, Anjana was performing severe penance to please Lord Shiva and obtain a child. Impressed by her devotion, Lord Shiva appeared before her and blessed her with a son who would be a symbol of strength and devotion.
The Miracle of Lord Hanuman’s Birth
When Anjana was about to give birth to Lord Hanuman, she was visited by the god of wind, Vayu, who had been tasked by Lord Shiva to ensure that Lord Hanuman was born without any complications. Vayu carried the divine energy of Lord Shiva and placed it in Anjana’s womb, ensuring that Lord Hanuman was born without any difficulties.
Another miracle that surrounded Lord Hanuman’s birth was that he was born with extraordinary physical strength and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. As soon as he was born, he leapt from his mother’s arms and flew to the sun, mistaking it for a fruit. Lord Indra, the king of gods, was alarmed by this and struck him with his thunderbolt, knocking him to the ground. This only made Lord Hanuman stronger, and he continued to cause mischief and display his immense strength throughout his childhood.
The Childhood of Lord Hanuman
As a child, Lord Hanuman was mischievous and playful, but also displayed extraordinary powers. He once swallowed the sun, causing darkness to fall over the world. The gods were alarmed by this and requested him to release the sun, which he did. Another time, he tried to catch the moon, mistaking it for a fruit, but was unable to do so.
Lord Hanuman’s devotion to Lord Rama was evident even in his childhood. When he met Lord Rama for the first time, he recognized him as the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and became his loyal devotee, serving him throughout his life.
Symbol of Strength, Devotion, and Loyalty
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Hanuman was born to Anjana and Kesari, two celestial beings. As a child, Hanuman showed exceptional physical strength and extraordinary intelligence. He is regarded as the epitome of strength, devotion, and loyalty.
Lord Hanuman played a significant role in the Hindu epic Ramayana, where he helped Lord Rama rescue his wife, Sita, from the clutches of the demon king Ravana. His unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and his ability to overcome any obstacle with his immense strength and intelligence continue to inspire millions of people across the world.
Hanuman’s Role in the Ramayana!
Lord Hanuman is known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, which is the cornerstone of his character in Ramayana. He is considered to be the greatest devotee of Lord Rama and played a crucial role in helping him defeat the demon king Ravana.
When Lord Rama and his wife Sita were exiled to the forest for 14 years, Sita was kidnapped by Ravana, who took her to his kingdom of Lanka. Lord Hanuman was sent by Lord Rama to find Sita and bring her back.
Hanuman’s Journey to Lanka
Hanuman’s journey to Lanka is one of the most iconic parts of Ramayana. He used his immense strength and intelligence to overcome various obstacles, including crossing the ocean and defeating the demon king’s army. He even set fire to Lanka with his tail, causing chaos and destruction to Ravana’s kingdom.
When Hanuman finally found Sita, he delivered Lord Rama’s message to her and reassured her of his impending rescue. He also showed her a ring that Lord Rama had given him as proof of his authenticity. Hanuman’s courage and loyalty to Lord Rama were evident in his determination to complete his mission and return to Lord Rama with news of Sita’s whereabouts.
The Battle of Ramayana: Hanuman’s Contributions to Lord Rama’s Victory
After Hanuman returned with news of Sita’s whereabouts, Lord Rama, with the help of an army of monkeys, waged a war against Ravana to rescue his wife. Hanuman played a significant role in the battle, using his strength and intelligence to overcome Ravana’s army and destroy his chariots.
In the final battle, Hanuman was responsible for finding the herb that saved Lord Lakshmana’s life. He also fought fiercely against Ravana’s son Indrajit and played a key role in his defeat.
Finally, when Lord Rama defeated Ravana and rescued Sita, Hanuman’s unwavering devotion to Lord Rama was evident in his joy and celebration of their victory.
Hanuman as “Chiranjeevi”
As per the Shiva Purana, Hanuman is believed to be an avatar of Lord Shiva and is also called Chiranjeevi, meaning he is immortal. He is worshipped for his unwavering devotion to Shri Rama and is known for his selfless dedication to God. In fact, he is considered the embodiment of the Karma Yogi – one whose meditation and devotion are demonstrated through hard work or service.
What to offer to Lord Hanuman on Hanuman Janmotsav?
During difficult times, praying to Lord Hanuman can help resolve problems, overcome obstacles, and even help one find a new path in life. On this day, devotees offer various offerings to please Lord Hanuman and seek his blessings. Here are some of the most popular offerings made to Lord Hanuman on Hanuman Janmotsav:
Sindhoor (vermilion powder)
Sindhoor is one of the most important offerings made to Lord Hanuman. It is a symbol of Hanuman’s bravery and courage. Devotees apply sindhoor on Lord Hanuman’s idol or offer it as a Prasad to seek his blessings.
Til (Sesame)
Sesame is another popular offering made to Lord Hanuman. It is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Devotees offer sesame seeds or sesame oil to Lord Hanuman to seek his blessings for success and prosperity.
Urad dal (husked black gram)
Urad dal is considered a favourite food of Lord Hanuman. Devotees offer urad dal to Lord Hanuman as Prasad to seek his blessings for good health and strength.
Banana
Banana is another popular offering made to Lord Hanuman. It is considered a symbol of fertility and abundance. Devotees offer bananas to seek Lord Hanuman’s blessings for prosperity and fertility.
Fruits
Fruits are a common offering made to Lord Hanuman on Hanuman Janmotsav. Devotees offer various fruits like mangoes, oranges, and apples to seek his blessings for good health and wealth.
Garlands of Arka flowers and leaves
Arka flowers and leaves are believed to be very auspicious and are considered a favourite of Lord Hanuman. Devotees offer garlands made of Arka flowers and leaves to seek his blessings for success and prosperity.
In addition to these offerings, devotees also perform various rituals and offer prayers to Lord Hanuman on Hanuman Janmotsav. They recite Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand Path, and other Hanuman bhajans to seek his blessings and grace.
Auspicious Hanuman Mantras
The Hanuman Chalisa is a powerful prayer that, when chanted regularly, purifies both body and mind, and increases otherworldly knowledge and trust throughout everyday life. Another significant path that describes the devotion, valor, wisdom, faith, dedication, and strength of Mahaveer Hanuman is the Sundarkand Path. Performing this path in our home can give us mental and physical strength, and help in getting rid of Daridrata (poverty) and illness in our lives.
Additionally, whoever faces a malefic or negative Shani in their birth chart is advised to pray to Lord Hanuman. Bowing and surrendering to Hanuman ji can help one overcome Shani’s wrath and never be defeated. It’s also important to note that Shri Hanuman is the ruling deity of the planet Mars.
Devotees can please him through offerings, chanting the Hanuman Chalisa and Sundarkand Path, and praying for strength and guidance during difficult times.
Effects of Shani and Mangal
According to Hindu mythology, the planets in our solar system have a significant impact on our lives. Two such planets are Shani (Saturn) and Mangal (Mars). It is believed that the malefic effects of these planets can cause obstacles, delays, and challenges in one’s life.
Lord Hanuman is often associated with overcoming these challenges and is considered to be a powerful deity to pray to for those who are facing the negative influence of Shani and Mangal.
Shani is believed to be a planet that brings misfortune and delay in one’s life. It is said that Shani can cause problems in career, health, and relationships. Many people who are facing the negative effects of Shani in their birth chart, also known as Shani dosh, turn to Lord Hanuman for help.
Lord Hanuman is known for his devotion to Lord Rama and his selfless service. It is believed that if one worships Hanuman with devotion and offers prayers to him, he can help mitigate the negative impact of Shani. The regular chanting of Hanuman Chalisa and performing Sundarkand Path is believed to bring peace and prosperity to one’s life.
Similarly, Mangal is believed to be a planet that causes aggression, impatience, and conflicts in one’s life. It is also associated with accidents and injuries. Lord Hanuman is considered the ruling deity of Mars and is believed to bring strength and courage to those who are facing the malefic effects of Mangal.
For those who are going through Sade Sati or Shani Mahadasha, it is recommended to pray to Lord Hanuman, who is believed to be the ruling deity of the planet Mars and is known to have the power to ward off negative effects of Saturn or Shani.
Rudraksha related to Lord Hanuman
Rudraksha beads are considered sacred and hold a significant place in Hindu mythology. They are believed to possess spiritual and medicinal properties and are often used for meditation and healing purposes.
In this regard, there are certain Rudraksha beads that are associated with Lord Hanuman and are considered to be auspicious for seeking his blessings. These include the 3 Mukhi, 11 Mukhi, and 14 Mukhi Rudraksha beads.
The 3 Mukhi Rudraksha is believed to represent Lord Agni, the God of Fire. It is said to have the power to purify the mind and body, enhance concentration and memory, and bring success and good fortune. It is also believed to be beneficial for those suffering from low self-esteem and confidence.
The 11 Mukhi Rudraksha is believed to represent Lord Hanuman and is considered to be one of the most powerful Rudraksha beads. It is said to provide strength, courage, and protection to the wearer, and help overcome obstacles and challenges in life. It is also believed to have healing properties and can be beneficial for those suffering from physical or emotional pain.
The 14 Mukhi Rudraksha is believed to represent Lord Hanuman as well as Lord Shiva. It is said to provide spiritual growth, enhance intuition and wisdom, and bring peace and harmony to the wearer. It is also believed to have the power to ward off negative energies and protect against evil forces.
In conclusion, the 3 Mukhi, 11 Mukhi, and 14 Mukhi Rudraksha beads are considered to be sacred and are believed to possess spiritual and healing properties. They are also associated with Lord Hanuman and can be used for seeking his blessings and protection, especially during times of difficulties or challenges.
Hanuman Janmotsav Maha Puja 2023!
Rudralife organized a Hanuman Janmotsav Maha Puja for the auspicious occasion on the 6th of April 2023. It was conducted by 4 Vedic pandits and is considered beneficial for those who seek blessings of Shani and Mangal.
Puja description was as follows:
Swastivachan, Sankalp, Kalash Pujan, Gauri and Ganesh Pujan, Pradhan Devta Pujan, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak Path, Sat Hanuman Chalisa Paath, Mahabhishek form Til oil, Phusparchan of 108 names of Lord Hanuman, Mahamangal Aarti and Pushpanjali, Visharjan, Ashirvacchan.
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