Hanuman Jayanti
April 12, Saturday
The date of the festival depends on the Indian calendar and it is usually celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Chaitra (as per the Indian lunar calendar), which usually falls in April or May. Hanuman Jayanti is especially widely celebrated in the states of India such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and other regions where Hanuman is worshipped.
How Hanuman Jayanti is Celebrated
Worship of Hanuman. Special prayers and rituals are performed in temples dedicated to Hanuman. Devotees bring flowers, fruits and other offerings and chant prayers and mantras such as the famous Hanuman Chaliya, which consists of forty verses praising the exploits of Hanuman.
Recitation of Mantras and Sacred Texts. On this day, devotees recite mantras such as the Hanuman Chaliya and other sacred texts related to the life and deeds of Hanuman, especially from the Ramayana, where Hanuman is depicted as Rama's chief assistant in his fight against the demon Ravana.
Festive Processions and Games. In some regions, colorful processions are held with people dressed as Hanuman. In some places, theatrical plays are also staged depicting episodes from Hanuman's life, exploits and devotion to Rama.
A Day of Strength and Health. Hanuman is associated with physical strength, courage and endless devotion. Therefore, many believers spend this day doing physical exercises, meditation or practices aimed at strengthening the body and spirit.