Rituals and Traditions: How Devotees Celebrate Hanuman Jayanti Across India

Introduction: The Spirit of Hanuman Jayanti
Who is Lord Hanuman?
When is Hanuman Jayanti Celebrated?
Rituals and Traditions Across India
- Maharashtra: Early Morning Festivities
- Tamil Nadu & Kerala: Hanuman in the Ramayana Legacy
- Uttar Pradesh & Bihar: Sankat Mochan Celebrations
- Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh: Sacred Offerings and Pujas
- Northern India: Temple Melas and Bajrang Baan
Common Offerings and Foods
The Role of Bhajans and Ramayana Recitals
Modern Celebrations: Digital Aartis and Global Devotion
Conclusion: A Festival of Strength, Faith, and Devotion

1. Introduction: The Spirit of Hanuman Jayanti

Hanuman Jayanti is not just a festival — it is a celebration of unwavering devotion, selfless service, and inner strength. Across India, devotees come together to honour the birth of Lord Hanuman, the divine monkey god known for his boundless energy, loyalty to Lord Rama, and fearless courage.

2. Who is Lord Hanuman?

Known as the “Pavanputra” (Son of the Wind), Hanuman is a key figure in the Ramayana and a symbol of bhakti (devotion) and shakti (strength). Whether lifting mountains or tearing through obstacles, Hanuman’s heroic tales continue to inspire millions.

3. When is Hanuman Jayanti Celebrated?

While the festival is commonly observed during Chaitra Purnima (March-April) in many parts of India, southern states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka mark it in Margazhi (December-January) or Hanumanth Jayanthi (in Vaishakha month). These regional variations add richness to the nationwide celebration.

4. Rituals and Traditions Across India

Maharashtra: Early Morning Festivities

In Maharashtra, Hanuman Jayanti starts at dawn. Devotees gather at temples to witness the ceremonial “abhishek” (holy bath) of Hanuman idols using milk, curd, ghee, and honey. Many fast until they offer prayers and chant the Hanuman Chalisa 108 times.

Tamil Nadu & Kerala: Hanuman in the Ramayana Legacy

In southern states, Hanuman is worshipped as the ultimate Ram Bhakta. Processions with Ramayana recitations, temple dramas, and special offerings like butter and bananas are common. Temples such as Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple in Chennai become major devotional hubs.

Uttar Pradesh & Bihar: Sankat Mochan Celebrations

The holy city of Varanasi comes alive around Sankat Mochan Temple, where Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with grandeur. Devotees light oil lamps, perform akhand path (non-stop chanting), and participate in musical Ramcharitmanas renditions.

Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh: Sacred Offerings and Pujas

Here, the rituals focus on detailed archana, panchamrit abhishekams, and traditional prasadam like vada and coconut sweets. Temples in Hampi and Kondagattu attract lakhs of pilgrims during this time.

Northern India: Temple Melas and Bajrang Baan

From Delhi to Himachal Pradesh, the festival is marked by melas (fairs) near temples, wrestling matches, and collective recitation of the Bajrang Baan. Hanuman idols are adorned with vermillion and silver ornaments, and mass feasts are offered.

5. Common Offerings and Foods

Across the country, devotees prepare offerings such as:

Boondi laddoos (a favourite of Hanuman)
Tulsi leaves and betel garlands
Butter and jaggery
Fruits like bananas and mangoes

Fasting followed by offering sattvic food is widely observed.

6. The Role of Bhajans and Ramayana Recitals

Hanuman Jayanti without bhajans is unimaginable. Groups sing soul-stirring bhajans, often accompanied by mridangam or tabla. Ramayana katha sessions—especially the Sundarkand—are read aloud, invoking peace and devotion.

7. Modern Celebrations: Digital Aartis and Global Devotion

In recent years, Hanuman Jayanti has also entered the digital age. From virtual darshans to live-streamed aartis, devotees from around the world now participate in Indian rituals. Devotional apps, YouTube bhajans, and social media live sessions bring communities together globally.

8. Conclusion: A Festival of Strength, Faith, and Devotion

Hanuman Jayanti is more than just a religious occasion. It’s a reminder of inner strength, boundless energy, and devotion to a higher cause. From ancient temples to digital screens, the celebration unites millions in collective reverence.

Wherever you are, when you chant “Jai Hanuman,” you’re part of an age-old tradition that continues to pulse with life and faith.