Hanuman Jayanti
Hanuman Jayanti is a Hindu festival celebrated to commemorate the birth of Hanuman, Vayu putra, who is also known as the 11th incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is celebrated on Moola Nakshatram in the Margazhi month as per the Hindu calendar, which is usually in the month of December or January. This auspicious day is celebrated with great devotion by Tamil Hindus throughout India and the world. People visit temples to offer prayers and perform special puja. They also sing devotional songs and listen to stories of Hanuman‘s heroic deeds. It is believed that worshipping Hanuman on this day brings good luck and prosperity.
In 2022, Margazhi month begins on December 16, 2022 and ends on January 14, 2023. The festivities of this festival begin one week before the main day of Hanuman Jayanti. During this week, devotees visit temples dedicated to Hanuman and worship him with great devotion. Prayers, pujas and devotional songs are performed to honor the Deity.
Hanuman Jayanti, celebrated by many Hindu communities, usually takes place on the full moon day of the Chaitra month (March – April). However, in 2022, it will be observed on December 23, during the Tamil Month of Margazhi for Tamil Hindus.
The significance of the festival is to commemorate the birth of Hanuman, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. He is widely revered for his courage and strength, as well as for his devotion to Lord Rama. He is also known for his wisdom and ability to solve difficult problems. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to remind us of the power of devotion, courage, and strength. It is also a day to remember Hanuman’s selfless service to Lord Rama and his commitment to protecting the world from evil.
On the day of Hanuman Jayanti, a huge procession is carried out in the streets of Tamil Nadu to honor the deity. People from all walks of life, irrespective of their caste or creed, join in this procession. They carry murtis of Hanuman and chant his name as they walk. Shrines dedicated to Hanuman are decorated with flowers and lights and special offerings are made to the deity.
