Lord Hanuman, who is also known as “Pawanputra” (son of the Wind God), is revered for his strength, courage and devotion. Today (April 6) marks his birth anniversary and is celebrated across the world as Hanuman Jayanti or Hanuma Jayanti.
Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated twice a year. While one marks the birth of Lord Hanuman, which is celebrated on Chaitra Poornima and typically falls in April, the other marks Hanuman Vijayam (Victory of Hanuman), which is in the month of Vaishakha that typically falls in May.
Lord Hanuman was born to Anjana and Kesari, the two divine beings in the form of monkeys. It is being said that they prayed to Lord Shiva for a son on Anjanadri hill, which is one of the seven hills in Tirumala. Hanuman is believed to be born at sunrise on the Anjanadri hill and his birth anniversary is celebrated as Hanuman Jayanti by devotees around the world. Lord Hanuman was born with divine powers, including strength, courage and the ability to fly.
The other Hanuma Jayanti is Hanuman Vijayam (Victory of Hanuman). As per epic Ramayana, Hanuman Vijayam is associated with his role in assisting Lord Rama in search of Goddess Sita and defeating the demon King Ravana, who had abducted Goddess Sita. Lord Hanuman played a crucial role in the battle against Ravana and his strength, courage and loyalty to Lord Rama were instrumental in the eventual victory of Lord Rama’s army.
During Hanuman Jayanti, devotees perform special prayers, visit temple and offer the Lord flowers and sweets, and chant mantras to seek his blessings. Hanuman is believed to protect devotees from all kinds of dangers and evils and worshipping him is said to bring strength, courage, and success in life.
