Hanuman Jayanti 2024: Date, Significance, and Celebrations
Hanuman Jayanti is an important Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Hanuman, a revered deity known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and remarkable strength and courage. Devotees across India and in Hindu communities worldwide enthusiastically observe the festival.
Date of Hanuman Jayanti 2024
In 2024, Hanuman Jayanti will be observed on Monday, April 23. The date can vary each year based on the Hindu lunar calendar, specifically the Chaitra month of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon).
Significance of Hanuman Jayanti
Hanuman Jayanti commemorates the birth of Hanuman Ji, who is considered a symbol of devotion, courage, and selfless service. He is revered as a divine monkey god who played a crucial role in the epic Ramayana, assisting Lord Rama in his battle against the demon king Ravana and rescuing Sita, Rama’s wife.
The festival celebrates Hanuman Ji’s birth and emphasizes the values he represents, such as loyalty, strength, and devotion. Hanuman Ji is often depicted as a monkey-faced figure with a mighty physique, and his stories inspire countless devotees to lead lives of virtue and righteousness.
How Hanuman Jayanti is Celebrated
1. Temple Visits and Worship: Devotees visit temples dedicated to Hanuman Ji to offer prayers, perform rituals, and participate in special aarti (worship ceremonies). Temples are often decorated with flowers and lights, and the recitation of Hanuman Chalisa and other devotional hymns is common.
2. Fasting and Feasting: Many devotees observe a fast on Hanuman Jayanti, abstaining from food and water, while others prepare special prasad (offerings) like jaggery, besan (gram flour sweets), and fruits, which are offered at the temple and shared with family and friends.
3. Community Events and Processions: In some regions, processions are held where devotees carry idols of Hanuman Ji and participate in devotional singing and dancing. These processions often include dramatic reenactments of stories from the Ramayana.
4. Reading Scriptures: Devotees may also read or listen to stories from the Ramayana, particularly focusing on Hanuman Ji’s role and deeds, to deepen their understanding and devotion.
5. Charity and Service: Following Hanuman Ji’s example of selfless service, many people engage in charitable activities, such as distributing food to the needy or organizing community service events.
Hanuman Jayanti is a time for devotees to renew their faith, seek blessings for strength and protection, and celebrate the enduring legacy of Hanuman Ji.