Hanuman Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, the devoted follower of Lord Rama and a central character in the Indian epic Ramayana. Known for his immense physical strength, moral courage, and unyielding devotion to Lord Rama, Hanuman is worshipped as a symbol of devotion, strength, and loyalty.

The festival is celebrated on the 15th day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Chaitra, usually falling in late April or early May according to the Gregorian calendar. However, in some parts of India, Hanuman Jayanti is observed in other months based on regional lunar calendars.

On Hanuman Jayanti, devotees visit temples dedicated to Hanuman or conduct special prayers at home. It is common practice to read the Hanuman Chalisa, a 40-verse hymn praising Lord Hanuman and recounting his deeds. In many temples, continuous recitation of the Ramayana or the Sundara Kanda, a chapter of the Ramayana that highlights Hanuman’s adventures, takes place throughout the day.

Devotees also observe a day-long fast, which is broken only after sunset. Prasad (sacred food offering), typically consisting of sweets, fruits, and flowers, is distributed after the prayers. In some parts of India, processions are held, with participants chanting hymns and devotional songs in honor of Lord Hanuman.

In regions like Maharashtra and Telangana, the festival is celebrated over a period of 41 days, which includes the reading of the Hanuman Chalisa and the Sundara Kanda, physical activities like wrestling and bodybuilding, and other cultural events, reflecting Hanuman’s significance as a symbol of physical strength and perseverance.

Hanuman Jayanti is a day for devotees to reflect upon the values embodied by Hanuman – devotion, loyalty, strength, and selfless service, and to seek his blessings for courage and strength in their own lives.