Sri Hanuman

Sri Hanuman is one of the most beloved and powerful deities in Hinduism. He is known for unshakable devotion to Lord Rama, immense strength and courage, wisdom, humility, and loyalty. He played key role in the epic Ramayana, where he serves Rama and rescues Sita. He is considered an incarnation of Lord Shiva and son of the wind god Vayu, making him both divine and dynamic. He is one of the Chiranjivi(s) i.e. immortal living beings who are to remain alive on the Earth forever. Hanuman is considered a lifelong Brahmachari. It is believed that He has taken the vow to celibate throughout His life and to remain an ardent devotee of Lord Rama.
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Hanuman ji is known as “Sankat Mochan” (remover of problems & liberator from dangers) and great savior. The roles of Hanuman ji find mention in Ramayana. He helped Sugriva to save him from his brother Bali. Hanuman ji as greatest devotee of Shree Rama, played crucial role to find Mata Sita, brought life-saving herb from Himalayas in limited time to save Lakshman ji, killed Ahiravana & rescued Shree Rama and Lakshman and did many notable tasks mentioned in Ramayana. In Kalyug, he is saving the devotees from troubles and therefore is fondly called as Sankat Mochan.
He is worshipped as -

1. A protector from fear, black magic, ghosts, and evil
2. A role model of devotion, discipline, humility, and strength
3. Worshipped by students, wrestlers, travellers, and spiritual seekers

Popular Names of Hanuman (and Meanings)

1. Hanuman - One with a disfigured jaw (Hanu = jaw, man = prominent)
2. Anjaneya - Son of Anjana (his mother)
3. Maruti - Son of the wind god (Marut/Vayu)
4. Bajrangbali - Strong as lightning (Bajra = thunderbolt, Bali = strength)
5. Mahaveer - The great hero
6. Rama Bhakta - Devotee of Rama
7. Sankat Mochan - Remover of obstacles and troubles
8. Pavanputra - Son of the wind (Pavan)

 
Symbolism of Hanuman

1. Mace (Gada) - Strength and authority
2. Tail - Source of power and pride (used to burn Lanka)
3. Heart with Rama & Sita - Pure devotion and loyalty
4. Leaping posture - Boundless energy and dedication
5. Monkey form - Symbol of service and humility, despite power

 
Why is Hanuman Worshipped?

1. He removes fear, evil forces, and obstacles
2. He grants strength, courage, confidence, and protection
3. He brings success in exams, career, legal battles, and health
4. He is easily pleased and very protective of devotees
5. Devotees believe that no negative energy can touch those who worship Hanuman sincerely.

 
When is Hanuman Worshipped?

1. Tuesdays - Most common day for Hanuman puja and fasting
2. Saturdays - Also considered auspicious for removing fears and Shani-related issues
3. Hanuman Jayanti - Birth celebration (Varies by region: Chaitra Purnima or in December/January)
4. Daily - Many chant Hanuman Chalisa every morning or evening

 
How is Hanuman Worshipped?

1. Bathe or clean yourself early in the morning.
2. Offer: Sindoor (vermillion) and oil, Tulsi leaves, banana, or jaggery
3. Light a ghee lamp and incense
4. Recite - Hanuman Chalisa, Mantras and Sundar Kand (from Ramayana)
5. Bow with devotion and meditate on his bravery and loyalty.

 
Popular Hanuman Mantras

1. Mool Mantra - ॐ हनुमते नमः - Om Hanumate Namah - Salutations to Hanuman – For strength, clarity, and focus.
2. Bajrang Baan (Longer prayer) - A very powerful hymn recited for protection, victory, and driving away negative forces.
3. Hanuman Gayatri - ॐ आञ्जनेयाय विद्महे वायुपुत्राय धीमहि। तन्नो हनुमान् प्रचोदयात्॥ - Om Anjaneyaya Vidmahe Vayuputraya Dhimahi Tanno Hanuman Prachodayat - Meaning: "Let us meditate on the son of Anjana and Vayu; may Hanuman inspire and guide us."
4. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak - A powerful devotional hymn listing how Hanuman removes difficulties in every situation.