Cheti Chand / Jhulelal Jayanti Festival

                                          Cheti Chand / Jhulelal Jayanti

 According to the Hindu calendar, Cheti Chand is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month known as Chet in Sindhi. Hence it is known as CHET-I-CHAND.

Cheti Chand is an important festival celebrated by Sindhi people of Pakistan and India. However date of Cheti Chand is decided based on Hindu calendar. According to Hindu calendar, Cheti Chand is celebrated on the second day of Chaitra Shukla Paksha. Most of the times, it is celebrated one day after Ugadi and Gudi Padwa.
It is the day when the New Moon becomes visible after no moon day. Due to the first appearance of the moon during the Cheti month, this day is known as Cheti Chand.
The Sindhi community celebrates the festival of Cheti Chand to commemorate the birth anniversary of Ishtadeva Uderolal which is popularly known as Jhulelal, the patron saint of Sindhis.

After observing 40 days of penance called  Chaliho Sahab, Sindhis celebrate Cheti Chand as a day of thanksgiving. During Chahilo Sahab faithful offer prayers to the water god by giving up luxuries like using soap or oil for a bath, not wearing new clothes, eating simple food and singing prayer hymns and songs in their god’s praise. Cheti Chand marks the end of Chahilo and the day of celebrations.
Legend
 According to legends, a Muslim dictator Mirkshaw coerced the Hindus to adopt Islam. The oppressed Hindus prayed to Lord Varuna on the banks of the river Sindhu for their deliverance from the repression. One day the Lord answered their prayers and was incarnated as Uderolal (which means sprung from the waters), the son of Rattanchand and Deviki in the town of Narsapur of Cheti Chand (चेटी चंड) (Sindhi – چنڊ ‎چيٽي). Uderolal performed many wonders for the residents of Nasarpur and rescued the Hindus from dispossession. Coming to know of this, the emperor wanted to see Uderolal but he was always thwarted by heavenly involvement. Ultimately when he got to meet Uderolal, he taught the emperor that there is no distinction between Hindus and Muslims; all men are the creation of one God and Humanity is the highest religion. Thereafter being made aware by the God, Mirkshaw discontinued all atrocities towards the Hindus and ruled justly.

History of  Cheti Chand / Jhulelal Jayanti:-

Jhulelal, Ishta Dev of Sindhis, was born on Cheti Chand, to Rattan Rao Luhana and his wife Devaki and is also known as Lal Sai, Uderolal, Varun Dev and Zinda Pir .
Cheti Chand falls on the second day of the Chaitra month and is very auspicious day for Sindhis. Sindhis all over the world celebrate this day in Jhulelal's memory
Legend has it that, In the tenth century when Arabs were declining and the Soomras were coming up, Ruller of Thatta, Mirkh Shah, ordered the Hindus to embrace lslam.
The Hindus asked Mirkh Shah for some time to think over the order. Mirkh Shah agreed to give Hindus forty days.
The Hindus then gathered on the banks of the mighty Sindhu and prayed to God Varuna to save them. For forty days, they continued the prayer.
They neither shaved nor wore new clothes, praying and fasting and singing songs in praise of God Varuna.
On the fortieth day, a voice was heard "Fear not, I shall save you from the wicked Mirkh Shah. I shall come down as a mortal and take birth in the womb of Mata Devaki in the house of Rattan Rao Luhana of Nasarpur".
Even today Followers of Jhulelal perform this prayer for forty days ("chaliho") and celebrate "Thanksgiving Day" after "chaliho".
As expected on Cheti Chand, Jhulelal was born to Mata Devaki as "Udaichand". He was also known as "Uderolal".
Hindus have asked for some more time from Mirkh Shah in the meantime and Mirkh Shah on knowing about the "mysterious child" being born as savior of Hindus, decided to give them more time just to prove his supremacy.
In his growing years, people got more convinced of Uderolal being their savior.
Uderolal was asled to appear before Mirkh Shah,
Uderolal urged Mirkh Shah about Hindu-Muslim unity and oneness of God, but Mirkh Shah was not convinced and ordered his arrest.
As Uderolal was being arrested, people saw a sudden great waves of water flooded the place and fire too broke our and the palace in flames.
Uderolal explained Mirkh Shah, that there is no point of arguing; as all God are one and same and we should all live in peace.
Mirkh Shah, on seeing this miracle, was terrified and pleaded for mercy. As soon as he pleaded for mercy, the water receded away and fire flames were gone too.
Since then, Jhulelal is worshiped by both Hindus and Muslims.

Cheti Chand Significance:-


Cheti Chand SignificanceKing Markh Shah of Sind believed in converting Hindus into Muslims. He used force and torure to convert the Hindus. Hindus were greatly perturbed. They gathered at the banks of the river Indus and went on fast. They pleaded God to come to their prayers. Their prayers were answered and God appeared before them coming out of the flowing Indus-waters. He said to them that he'll soon take birth in the house of Ratanchand and save them from the tyranny of Markh Shah. Udero was born in the city of Nasarpur on the first day of the month of Chaitra. He checked king Markh Shah in his tyrannical pursuits of proselytizing the Hindus. Now this story has got historical as well as scientific basis. Nasarpur town still stands near Thatta, the capital of Sindh, when Markh Shah ruled. Udero's first name was Udaychand meaning the rising one. Uderolal is said to have been born on the first day of the Chaitra month. Which is considered the first day of our new year. Sindhis have Cheti Chand (First day of Chaitrra) as their New Year Day. Cheti Chand is considered as the birthday of our Udero.

 The main festival starts by the worshiping the lord Jhulelal and Bahrano. Men perform the folk dance, Chej on Sindhi music before the idol of Jhulelal.

 All the organizations or institutions dedicated to Sindhis, celebrate this festival with gaiety and pomp. Aarti of the Sea God of the Sindhis- Jhulelal Sain is performed. It is also a day of worshiping and thanking the god of water, without which, life is impossible.

Legend of Jhulelal:-

Mirkhshah, a tyrant and a fanatic, forced Hindus to embrace Islam. The oppressed Hindus prayed. They underwent rituals and vigil on the bank of Sindhu. In the evening, they worshipped God Varun, sang songs in his praise and prayed for their solace and salvation. No new clothes or shoe were used. Men did not shave. And finally on the 40th day, the River god spoke to them.
 The answer to the prayers of Hindus was Jhulelal. He was born to Devaki and Rattanchand of Nasarpur on Cheti Chand, two  tithis from new moon of CHET. A Punjabi astrologer in Nassarpur called the child Uderolal. Udero in Sanskrit means who has sprung from the waters. The inhabitants of Nassarpur called the newborn Amarlal, an immortal child.
 The cradle of Uderolal would swing on its own, hence the child got the name “Jhulelal” which means one who swings to and fro. As a child, Uderolal performed many miracles for Ratanchand and the inhabitants of Nassarpur.

 Mirkhshah became very anxious to have first-hand knowledge about the mysterious child. Divine interventions always led to the defeat of Mirkshah. Finally when Uderolal came face to face with Mirkhshah, he said, "Whatever you see around yourself is the creation of one and only God, whom you call 'Allah' and Hindus call 'Ishwar'. Hindus, Muslims and other human beings are all His creation".
 Mirkhshah. wavering as usual, was ultimately carried away by the pressurization of Maulvies and ordered the arrest of Uderolal. As the officials of the court moved towards Udero, water started flowing in the court. All the courtiers including Mirkhshah found themselves inundated in water. Simultaneously, fire also broke out.
 Finally, Mirkshah realized his mistake and begged of Jhulelal to have mercy on them. Immediately, the fire was blown out on its own and the water receded. The Hindus were saved. Jhulelal was known as the Asht Dev of Sindhis.

Behrana Sahib:-

Baharana Sahib is nothing but a colorful decorative Pooja thali, typically a bronze plate, decorated beautifully on the auspicious occasions like weddings, purchase of new homes and of course Cheti Chand festival. Behrana Sahib- the holy plate- has the following placed in it:
◾Saint Jhulelal’s idol
◾A kalash (earthen vessel) filled with water. A coconut is placed on this jar and it is covered with a red cloth
◾The kalash is also decorated with flowers and leaves.
◾Wheat flour dough is given the shape of a cone, and is decorated with vermillion, cardamom, almonds, cashews and cloves. On top of it, a large piece of refined sugar (Misri) is placed.
◾The wheat cone is cone is surrounded with fresh flowers, fruits, scented dhoop, agarbattis, and five diyas.
◾Rice and sugar is also placed in Behrana Sahib


Sindhi Festival Calendar:-

Younger sindhi generations are more familiar with Gregorian (English) calendar so for their easiness we are giving month wise list of sindhi festivals . Here is Sindhi Festival Calendar (month wise) List of Sindhi / Hindu festivals .

How we celeberate Cheti Chand / Jhulelal Jayanti Festival:-

As a tradition, followers of Jhulelal observe Chaliho Sahab. It suggests that for forty long days and nights they underwent ritual on the bank of Sindhu. They did not shave, nor did they wear new clothes or shoes. They did not use soap or oil or any opulent thing. They just washed their clothes, dried them and wore them again. In the evening, they worshipped Lord Varuna, sang songs in his praise and prayed for their solace and salvation. After 40 days of Chaaliho, the followers of Jhulelal celebrate the occasion with festivity as ‘Thanks Giving Day’ even till today.
On this day, many Sindhis take Baharana Sahib to a nearby river or lake. Baharana Sahib consists of Jyot (Oil Lamp), Misiri (Crystal Sugar), Phota (Cardamom), Fal (Fruits), and Akha. Behind is Kalsh (Water jar) and a Nariyal (Coconut) in it, covered with cloth, phool (flowers) and patta (leaves). There is also a Murti (Idol) of Pujya Jhulelal Devta.

Sindhis keep their shops and activities closed on this day even food is not cooked at the home  and  they gathered at community building (at Jhulelal Temple, where after a session of singing, worship of Jhulelal is made and procession of Bahrano is taken out. Cities Like Ulhasnagar, Ajmer, Indore, Kolhapur, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Surat etc are famous for unique style of Cheti Chand celebration and huge gathering of sindhi people.In City of Lakes at Shakti  nagar  there is a temple of Jhulelal sahib where a fair is organized by the community peoples  on ” Sindhi New Year Day”. Various types of treats are also available for common community peoples.
There  are various places in Lakecity where this holy festival is celebrated with great spirit one of which is located at :-
◾Pratap nagar –in the shiv temple
◾Jawaher nagar Sindhu bhavan
◾Hiran magri sector 5
In UDAIPUR the main temple of Jhulelal sahib (Sanathan Mandir) is situated at Shakti Nagar. Its main feature is a JYOT which is brought by the Ancestors of Sindhi Community after separation of HINDUSTAN (India) & PAKISTAN (1947).
The usual tradition is that on this day Sindhis bring out procession of water God Lord Jhulelal, In the form of Bahrano Sahib from Sindhudham (Jawaher nagar) to Sanatan temple in Shakti nagar where the holy MAHA ARTI takes place . During the procession of Bahrano Sahib traditional sindhi folk dance “Chhej” is performed by all age group Sindhis. After that talented Sindhi students are awarded for their excellence in academics. On this eve of NEW YEAR a Sindhi Fair is also organized by the community people, followed by an arrangement of refreshment is made for all Sindhi Community people.
Lastly, at night there is Visarjan ceremony of Bahrano Sahib.
Here are few of the glimpses of the past years’ celebrations
Cheti Chand Procession
◾The procession is taken to the river or sea shore. Thousands of people take part in the processions that take place in different cities.
◾The procession is vibrant with colorful floats narrating the life of Jhulelal and depicting the traditions and culture of Sindhi community.
◾Cheej is a folk dance of Sindhi, which is performed during the procession. Similarly, there are quite a few songs that also form part of this Cheti Chand procession. Followers sing the songs to seek the blessings of their Ishta Devta Jhulelal.
◾During the procession, the followers carry the Baharana Sahib with them and immerse it in the lake or river along with Akho rice.
◾Akho is a special recipe prepared on this day, using rice and sugar, similar to pudding

Chaliha Sahab festival – 40 days fasting:-

The forty days prayer is still observed by Sindhis during July-August. Many of them don’t shave and change clothes for 40 days. They just wash the clothes and wear them again. They repeat the same ritual for forty days.
Chalia Sahab jo Melo is one of the longest fair held at Chalia Sahib temple in Ulhasnagar, Maharashtra. It is believed that special jyot was brought from Sindh in Pakistan to Ulhasnagar, during partition. Aarti is performed everyday at Chalia Sahib temple. Sindhis from all over the world visit this temple during these 40 days and dip into the holy pond. They also immerse earthen pots ‘Matki’ in water.

 The Festivities of Cheti Chand / Jhulelal Jayanti:-

The Festival of Cheti Chand is an occasion for great celebrations. The Sindhi Community from all across the globe engages in religious and joyous activities on this special and pious day. They worship Lord Jhulelal and perform major “Aarthi” on this day. Sindhi people worship water as it is the birthday of the incarnation of Varuna God – The God of Water.
Charitable activities are performed such as the distribution of clothes and food to poor and needy. Delicious meals are prepared and whole family members sit and eat together. They sing hymns in praise of Lord Jhulelal, such as “O Lal Meri Pat Rakhiyo Bala Jhule Lalan …” It is the occasion when Sindhi people carry oil lamp, crystal sugar, cardamom, and fruits to Sindhu River and perform Pooja dedicated to Water God.
All together Cheti Chand or Jhulelal Jayanti is a festival of joy, happiness, and celebration

 

Hanumath Jayanti Festival

                                                 Hanumath Jayanti Festival


Hanumath Jayanti  is celebrate the birthday of Lord Hanuman on the 15th day of Shukla Paksha, during Chaitra month also known as (the Chaitra Purnima). Lord Hanuman also known as the Vanara god's birthday is widely known as Hanuman Jayanti or Hanumath Jayanti.
 Shri Hanuman is regarded as the God of power, strength and knowledge. He is known as the ‘param bhakt’ of lord Rama and is the incarnation of Lord Shiva. He was born to Kesari and Anjani on the Chaitra Shukla Purnima (Chaitra Shukla Purnima is the Full Moon Day on the Hindu Calendar Month of Chaitra) that is why, he is known as ‘KESERI NANDAN’ and ‘ANJANEYA’.

In India, there are hundreds and thousands of temples dedicated to Hanuman. In all the Vaishnava temples, there is at least a shrine dedicated to him. Devotees worship and pray to him to remove the obstacles in the path of their devotional service. In our temple there is a small shrine for the Deity of Hanuman near the entrance of Prahlada Narasimha Temple.
In various parts of the country, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated on different days. In some places (especially in Maharashtra) it is observed on Chaitra Purnima. In Tamilnadu and Kerala, it is celebrated in the month of Margazhi (December – January). As per the Odiya calendar it is celebrated on the first day of Vaishaka month. In Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh it is celebrated on Vaishaka Krishna Dashami, the 10th day of the waning moon in the month of Vaishaka. In our temple, Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated as per the local tradition on Vaishaka (May) Krishna Paksha Dashami (May 21, 2017).
The celebration starts in the morning with a special abhisheka for the Deity of Hanuman. After the abhisheka, Hanuman is adorned in a special alankara with butter and dry fruits. A garland made of vada (a doughnut shaped south-Indian snack made of urad dhal) is also offered.


How to Celebrate Hanuman Jayanti Festival:-
 

Celebrations on Hanuman Jayanti began early in the day with special puja being performed by devotees. Devotees perform holy Puja in temples dedicated to Sree Hanuman or at Home. People in India organize special prayers for Lord Hanuman to get rid of evil spirits. The God is known for its magical powers. Prayers and Hymns are sung all day long in various Hanuman temples dedicated to the lord. Hanuman is considered as a symbol of Power and great strength in Hindu mythology. He is believed to have carried a whole mountain in his shoulder. On auspicious day of Hanuman Jayanti, People apply red Sindur from Lord's feet on their foreheads. This is considering being a ritual for good health and good luck.
Some of the important puja rituals include offering red vermillion with ghee to the idol of Hanuman. Red flowers, rui leaves with areca nut, fruits especially bananas, ladoos are offered and diyas are lit. Devotees recite the Hanuman Chalisa and Bajrang Baan and perform ‘arti’. It is believed that Hanuman was born at sunrise, so recitations and poring over religious texts is done at dawn and later ‘prasad’ distribution ceremony is held.
In Western India, the practice of fasting a day before the Hanuman Jayanti is prevalent, whereas in Northern India, the general practice is to observe fasting on the day Hanuman Jayanti is held. Also, it is far more popular among males, especially wrestlers and bodybuilders. It is believed that chanting the Hanuman Chalisa hundred times for hundred days can help one attain the four tenets of Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha.
Hanuman Jayanti is an occasion to remember Lord Hanuman's unbridled devotion to Lord Rama and his feats of daring. In their quest to fight against Ravana, Lord Hanuman led a monkey army and built a bridge to Lanka. He also carried a whole mountain of magic herbs on his shoulders to restore the life of Lakshman. Thus, the ubiquitous standing statue of Lord Hanuman with his heart stretched out open is at once a metaphoric as well as literal illustration of his infinite devotion to Lord Ram, his wife Sita and brother Lakshman.
In the epic tale of Ramayana, the extraordinary role of Lord Hanuman, an exemplary devotee of Lord Rama, is very well detailed out in situations requiring strength, will-power and courage. Lord Hanuman's character is lyrically elaborated in Tulsidas's 'Hanuman Chalisa'. Also invoked as 'Sankat Mochan', Lord Hanuman can avert any ill-effects posed by the nine planets to one's life as well as save one from the influence of evil spirits. In India, Tuesdays and Saturdays are dedicated to the worship of Lord Hanuman to get his blessings for progress, wisdom and fearlessness.
Incidents in Shri Hanuman’s life and their significance
 To provide assistance for the establishment of the Divine Kingdom: The main objective of Shri Hanuman’s life was to destroy obstacles in the establishment of the Divine Kingdom by providing the required warrior element. As a result, the embodied souls who would assist in the establishment of the Divine Kingdom were protected.
 For this reason itself Shri Maruti manifests Himself in various forms during different Yugas. His task in the manifest-unmanifest form never ceases. Shri Maruti has humility in serving (i.e. Dasyabhav) to the extent of 100%. Thus He is constantly active.
 Assisting embodied souls in performing spiritual practice: Shri Maruti has always helped embodied souls do spiritual practice in various Yugas. In the Tretayuga Shri Maruti taught the right path of spiritual practice to the monkeys and helped them.
 Liberating many souls: The embodied souls with an intense desire for spiritual practice were granted liberation by Shri Maruti even at the cost of His own powers. He liberated many souls from existence in their cursed class by using His mace.
 An example of a perfect Sevak: Shri Maruti presented an example of a perfect sevak. As a result, many embodied souls attained Final Liberation by following the same path i.e. Dasyatva. Due to His humility only He was able to narrate the good qualities of Shri Rama to Ravan and when Ravan denigrated Shri Rama, Maruti burnt Lanka and returned safely.

Ritualistic worship:-

1. Ritualistic worship of Shri Hanuman (Maruti) There is a specific science to the ritualistic worship of each Deity. This means that, actions done in a particular way during the ritualistic worship, have a specific underlying science. Just by following these actions, we can get maximum benefit of that Deity’s Principle. The following questions and answers contains the divine knowledge received by the seekers regarding exactly how some routine actions should be performed during the ritualistic worship of Shri Hanuman (Maruti).


Knowledge received about the ritual

1. Applying sindoor
How should a worshipper apply sindoor before starting the ritualistic worship of Maruti?

Sindoor should be applied with the ring finger.

2. Offering flowers
Which flowers should be offered?
 In what number?                         
 What is the method of offering the flowers?

Flowers and leaves of calotropis (ruee)
 Five or multiples of five
 The stems of flowers should be turned towards the Deity

3. Waving incense sticks
Incense sticks of which fragrances should be used?
 How many incense sticks should be used?
 What is the method of waving?

Kewda, Chameli (Jasmine) and Ambar
 Two
 Holding them between the index finger and thumb of the right hand, the incense sticks should be waved thrice, in a clockwise direction, in a full circle.

4. Circumambulation
How many circumambulations should be performed around Maruti?

Minimum five but if a worshipper wants to perform more, then they should be in multiples of five.

 Saade-saati of Saturn (Shani) and the ritualistic worship of Shri Hanuman
While enduring a Saade-saati of Saturn, Shri Hanuman is worshiped to reduce the distress caused by Saturn. The ritual is as follows:
Oil is taken in a bowl and 14 black urad grains are put in it. Thereafter one sees the reflection of his face in the oil. The oil is then offered to Shri Hanuman. The method of worship remains the same even when a person is sick and cannot visit a temple. The reflection of negative energy also takes place along with the reflection of ones face. When such oil is offered to Shri Hanuman, the negative energy therein gets destroyed. A true oil-merchant does not sell oil on Saturday because the negative energy causing distress to a person, who is going to offer the oil to Shri Hanuman, is likely to attack the oil merchant. Therefore one should not buy oil from the vendors sitting outside the Shri Hanuman temple but should bring it from his own house instead.

Use of Brahmatej and Kshatratej as required:-

The sacred thread (Janeu) on Hanuman’s left shoulder is a sign of Brahmatej. Since Shri Hanuman is an incarnation of Shri Shiva He has destructive powers too. Yet, because of His devotion to Shri Rama, Vishnu-tatva developed in Him. Since Shri Hanuman adorns Brahmatej and Kshatratej during wars, He can use both as required. During the war between the Kauravas and Pandavas, Shri Krishna seated Shri Hanuman on Arjun’s chariot (He can be seen on the flag at the top of Arjun’s chariot). Hanuman destroyed the weapons, directed at Arjun and his chariot, in mid-air itself.

Install the warrior posture idol of Shri Hanuman:-

To get the benefit of the gross, manifest and destroyer element, we should avoid installing an idol of Shri Hanuman in the seated posture. Amongst the seven higher Deities (Shiva, Ganapati, Rama, Krishna, Datta, Maruti and Durga), Shri Hanuman’s element (tatva) is of a gross, manifest and destroyer nature. The word ‘Hanuman’ means – ‘One whose ‘roar’ cannot be fathomed even by the Gods’. When Gods perform a destructive activity, they use the ‘Maruti’ element (which moves at the speed of wind) as a medium to appear in the Universe. Hence He is referred to as Shri Hanuman. The roar of Shri Hanuman is capable of activating the element of any higher Deity in the Universe who is engrossed in deep meditation. Similarly, it also possesses the power to shake all the fourteen planes (Saptalok and Saptapatal).
Shri Hanuman in seated posture depicts the unmanifest form of power. Shri Hanuman in a warrior posture depicts the manifest form of power. To obtain the benefit of the gross, manifest and destroyer element, we should avoid installing a seated idol of Shri Hanuman in a temple. Shri Hanuman in a seated position implies He is in deep meditation, wherein His motor organs are in a dormant, inactive state. Thus, the common man will be able to derive very little benefit from this posture of Shri Hanuman. When the spiritual level of an embodied soul is above 60%, it is capable of activating the element present in an idol in meditation, through his devotion.
Blasphemous paintings of Shri Hanuman by MF Hussain !
The modern Ghazhani MF Hussain has painted Shri Hanuman in very blasphemous form along with Sree Sita and Shri Ram. Following are some paintings by Hussain. Shri Hanuman is a symbol of devotion and Divine power. Hindus worshipping Shri Hanuman should take note of his strength and wake up to destroy these despicable modern forms of Rawan, then it will be the true worship of Hanumanji.

Become a Rambhakta and save Hindu Dharma :-

Hindu Dharma is now in great danger due to growing attacks on it from anti-Hindus, socialists, Muslims and Christians. Hindu Dharma is now in search of warriors to protect it from these attacks and to take it very high. You can do it in various easy ways. Because ‘changes do not occur by big miracles, but due to acts well within the common man’s reach’

Pre-birth Story of Hanumath :-

 Once Angira rishi visited Indra in Swarg. Indra welcomed him by arranging a dance by a damsel named Punjiksthala. As soon as she commenced dancing, the rishi closed his eyes to meditate on Paramatma. When the dance ended, the rishi remained silent. Indra then asked him, "O rishi! How was the dance?"
"We were absorbed in meditation of the Almighty. Such dance does not interest us." Indra felt ashamed. However, the ego-filled damsel sneered, "How can such a (fickle) rishi appreciate dancing in Swarg?" Hearing this, Angira cursed her, "Behold! You shall degrade to earth from Swarg. You will be born as a female monkey in the mountain forests."
The whole of Swarg plunged into consternation. The damsel greatly regretted and repented. She repeatedly begged for forgiveness. Finally, the merciful rishi solaced her, "A great devotee of Paramatma will be born to you. He will forever serve Paramatma."

This damsel was the daughter of Kunjar, the king of the monkeys. She married Kapiraj Kesari of Mount Sumeru.
Therefore, Hanumanji manifested as a result of five divine factors:
1. Angira rishi's curse and subsequent blessings
2. Anjani's prayers
3. Shri Mahadevji's (Shiva's) blessings
4. Attainment of Shiva's divine shakti by Vayu deva and
5. The fruit of a Putreshti Yagna
The Shiva Puran cites that since Shiva could not serve Shri Ram in his present form, he inspired the birth of one Rudra from his 11 Rudras, as a monkey, Hanumanji.
Once when Hanumanji was young Surya deva (Sun deity) imbued him with knowledge of countless weapons and mantras. However, his hyperactive nature induced him to think of swallowing the `red, ripened fruit' - the Sun! Before he succeeded, Indra hit him with his Vajra and persuaded him not to. On being hit by the Vajra, his beard - hanu-, became slanted. Therefore he also became known as Hanuman. The "ji" suffix after any name accords respect. Indra then blessed him that he will eternally remain undefeated, victorious. Hanumanji also obtained boons from Varuna deva (water deity) and Yama - deity of death, victory and immortality. From Brahma he obtained the power of inducing fear in enemies, of destroying fear in friends, to be able to change his form at will and to be able to easily travel wherever he wished. From Mahadevji he obtained the boons of longevity, scriptural wisdom and ability to cross the ocean (Padma Puran, Patal Khand, 114, Uttar Khand, 66, Narad Puran, 1.79).
Now Hanumanji attained a supremely formidable form. However as such, he began harassing rishis. Therefore Bhrugu rishi and Angira admonished him that he would forget the ability to use his formidable power and only a divine personality will later guide him to use it appropriately.
Henceforth Hanumanji lived an ordinary simian life in Kishkindha, on Mount Hrushyamuk as Sugriva's advisor. Only when Shri Ramachandra and Lakshman arrived in search of Sita, did the two first meet. (Valmiki Ramayana Kishkindha 1-4). Thus his life turned a new course. Ramchandraji asked him who he was. Gleaning his identity, Hanumanji humbly replied, "O Prabhu! From the body's point of view, I am your das (servant) and From the jiva's view, I am your bhakta."
Pleased with his wise reply, Shri Ram accepted his seva. Hanumanji and Sugriva then gathered and sent a mighty army of monkeys to aid Shri Ram in search of Sita. (V.R.Kishkindha 40-41).
When Hanumanji struck southwards towards Lanka, Ramchandraji gave him his ring. In case he met Sitaji, he would need to show it to prove that he was Shri Ram's envoy. Accompanied by Jambuvan, they all arrived on India's southern shore. Jambuvan graced Hanumanji. This resulted in him recalling his phenomenal power. Uttering "Jai Shri Ram!" Marutsut leaped high across the ocean towards Lanka!

Here, at night, assuming a subtle form, he entered Lanka. He combed through Ravan's palace, yet failed to locate Sitaji.
However during his search his phenomenal level of brahmacharya manifested.
Bhagwan Swaminarayan singularly highlights this in Vachanamrut Jetalpur 2. He avers that while searching for Jankiji (Sitaji), Hanumanji looked at every demoness in Ravan's palace, including Mandodari, Ravan's wife. After leaving, he wondered whether glancing at so many women would affect him (his brahmacharya) adversely? He then realized that he had done this to look for Jankiji by Ramchandraji's command. Additionally, his senses and consciousness by Ramchandraji's grace had not faltered. He then continued his search. In the midst of such allurements, one who remains unallured like Hanumanji, remarked Bhagwan Swaminarayan, is known as a yati.
Throughout the Ramayan one observes that whenever a vexing problem arose warranting diplomacy, Valmiki lauds Hanumanji as a confluence of such virtues as: integrity, valor, intelligence, strength, patience and wisdom. Hanumanji resolved such problems with finesse and devotion. When he finally located Sitaji, to first soothe and gain her trust, since more than likely she'd be frightened and would take him as one of Ravan's mayic form, he began to recite the glory of King Raghu's lineage while hidden among the trees. He then further recited Ramchandraji's glory. Sitaji's misery, loneliness and distress vanished. Charged with joy, she then requested the deity who sang the glory to present himself!

When Ravan's son Indrajit used his miraculous weapons, rendering Shri Ram and Lakshman unconscious, Hanumanji's supreme devotion as the ideal devotee manifested. Advised by the Ayurvedic physician Sushena, to fetch the four types of herbs on mount Dronachal to revive the two, Hanumanji flew there. Not recognizing the herbs, he returned with the whole mountain! This miraculous power arose from his unalloyed devotion to Shri Ram and his brahmacharya.
During Shri Ram's coronation, Sitaji gifted her invaluable pearl necklace to Hanumanji in jubilation. Being a detached and loyal devotee, he cracked a few pearls with his teeth. Not discovering his master inside, he discarded the necklace!
In a packed assembly, when somebody questioned him whether he really had Sita and Ram in his self, he literally tore open his chest to reveal both, in his heart! Seeing such zealous devotion, Ramchandraji embraced him and granted a boon. "Wherever my katha is being recited, you shall always be there... I shall never ever be estranged from you!"
Shri Ramchandraji further added, "O Hanuman! You have helped me countless times. Even if I give my life for you repeatedly, I cannot repay your debt. What then can I give you?" After pausing a few moments he added, "I give you what I possess; I gift you my love and grace!" He then embraced Hanumanji! Such occasions are a true devotee's supreme moments of fulfillment.
Another virtue of Hanumanji that Valmiki lauds is Buddhimataam Varishtham - the supreme among the wise. One well known episode reflects his wisdom. Once Mahadevji visited Shri Ram's court in Ayodhya. Ramchandraji welcomed him by offering a grand seat. He then requested Hanumanji to fetch milk. On fetching the milk, Hanumanji experienced a slight dilemma. Being a pativrata devotee (supremely loyal) of Shri Ram, how could he offer the milk to Mahadevji? Instantly he handed the bowl to his Master. Therefore Ramchandraji pointed out, 'O Hanuman. The guest is Mahadevji. Why do you offer me the milk?'
 Instantly Hanumanji replied, "Prabhu! Mahadevji is such a lofty guest that it would not be fitting for a lowly servant as me to offer him anything. It would only be appropriate for you to offer him the milk!"
 Bhagwan Swaminarayan lauds his glory as: one who has Pativrata - unalloyed bhakti towards Shri Ram (Gadhada III.16), being ideal in dasatva bhakti (Gadhada II.62) and as supreme yati (Jetalpur 2). Muktanand Swami accords him the titles jitendriya - one who has mastered his indriyas and naishthikendra - one who is a naishthik brahmachari. In the Hindu Dharma, he is rightfully venerated as a deva who is an ideal devotee of Ramchandra Bhagwan. The appellation "monkey god" by non-Hindu writers is a flagrant misnomer, depicting their ignorance. This too applies to Shri Ganeshji, who is also a deva and not an elephant god.
In the Vachanamrut then, Bhagwan Swaminarayan exhorts every devotee to imbibe Hanumanji's three foremost virtues of the ideal bhakta; pativrata bhakti, Dasatva bhakti and Naishthik brahmacharya.
In the Shikshapatri, Bhagwan Swaminarayan advocates Hanuman pujan on Aso vad 14 (Kali Chaudash) and enjoins those afflicted by evil spirits to chant the Hanuman Stotram (Shik. 127, 85).
In all the mandirs of the Swaminarayan Sampraday Hanumanji and Ganeshji are consecrated in their own special shrines in the front of the mandir. He is offered special pujan on Saturdays with oil and white ankada flowers( Calotropis gigantea - Swallow wart )

Hanuman Mantram:-

Manojavam Maruttulyavegm
Jitendrium Buddhimatam Varishtham
Vatatmajam Vanarayuthmukhyam
Shri Ramdutam Sharanam Prapdye.

Hanuman Aarti:-

Aarti Kije Hanuman Lala ki, Dustdalan Raghunath kala ki
Jake bal se giriwar kanpe, Rog dosh jake nikat na jhanke
Anjani putra maha bal dayee, Santan ke prabhu sada sahayi
De beera Raghunath pathaye, Lanka jaari seeya soodhi laye
Lanka so koti Samudra Si khaayi, Jat pawansut bar na layee
Lanka Jaari asur sanghare, Seeya Ramjee ke kaaj saware
Lakshman murchhit pare Sakare laye Sajeewan pran ubaare
Paithi patal tori jam kare, Ahiravana ki bhuja ukhare
Baaye bhuja asur dal mare, Dahine bhuja sant jan tare
Sur nar muni jan aarti utare, Jai jai jai Hanuman uchare
Kanchan thal Kapoor lou chhayi, Aarti karat Anjana mayi
Jo Hanuman ji ki Aarti gawe, Basi Bakuntha parampad pawe.

Doha:-

Shri Guru charan saroj raj, nij man mukur sudhari
Varnau Raghubar vimal jasu, jo dayak phal chari
Buddhihin tanu janike, sumiro Pavankumar
Bal buddhi vidya dehu mohi, harahu kalesh vikar.

Jay Hanuman gyan gun sagar, jay Kapis tihun lok ujagar.
Ramdut atulit bal dhama, Anjani putra Pavansut nama.

Pavantanay sankat haran, Mangal murati rup
Ram Lakhan Sita sahit, hriday basahu sur bhup.

Hanuman Chalisa:-

Mahavir vikram Bajrangi, kumati nivar sumati ke sangi
Kanchan baran viraj suvesha, kanan kundal kunchit kesa
Hath vajra aur dhvaja biraje, kandhe munj janeu saje
Shankar suvan Kesrinandan, tej pratap maha jagvandan
Vidyavan guni ati chatur, Ram kaj karibe ko atur
Prabhu charitra sunibe ko rasiya, Ram Lakhan Sita man basiya
Sukshma rup dhari siyahi dikhava, vikat rup dhari Lanka jarava
Bhim rup dhari asur sanhare, Ramchandra ke kaj sanvare
Laye sanjivan Lakhan jiyaye, Shri Raghubir harashi ur laye
Raghupati kinhi bahut barai, tum mam priya Bharathi sam bhai
Sahas badan tumharo yash gave, asi kahi Shripati kanth lagave
Sanakadik Brahmadi Munisha, Narad Sarad sahit ahisha
Yam Kuber Digpal jahan te, Kavi kovid kahi sake kahan te
Tum upkar Sugrivahin kinha, Ram milai Rajpad dinha
Tumharo mantra Vibhishan mana, Lankeshvar bhaye sabh jag jana
Jug sahasra yojan par bhanu, lilyo tahi madhur phal janu
Prabhu mudrika meli mukh mahi, jaladhi langhi gaye achraj nahin
Durgam kaj jagat ke jete, sugam anugraha tumhare tete
Ram duare tum rakhvare, hot na agya binu paisare
Sab sukh lahai tumhari sarna, tum rakshak kahu ko darna
Aapan tej samharo apai, tino lok hank te kanpe
Bhut pisach nikat nahin ave, Mahabir jab nam sunave
Nase rog hare sab pira, japat nirantar Hanumat bira
Sankat te Hanuman chhudave, man kram bachan dhyan jo lave
Sab par Ram tapasvi raja, tinke kaj sakal tum saja
Aur manorath jo koi lave, soi amit jivan phal pave
Charo jug partap tumhara, hai parsidh jagat ujiyara
Sadhu sant ke tum rakhvare, asur nikandan Ram dulare
Asht siddhi navanidhi ke data, us var din janki mata
Ram rasayan tumhare pasa, sada raho Raghupati ke dasa
Tumhare bhajan Ram ko bhave, janam janam ke dukh bisarave
Antakal Raghuvar pur jai, jahan janma Hari bhakta kahai
Aur devta chit na dharai, Hanumat sei sarva sukh karai
Sankat kate mite sab pira, jo sumre Hanumat balbira
Jai Jai Jai Hanuman gusain, kripa karahu gurudev ke nai
Jo shat bar path kar soi, chhotahin bandi maha sukh hoi
Jo yah padhe Hanuman chalisa, hoi siddhi sakhi gaurisa
Tulsidas sada Hari chera, kije nath hriday mahan dera.


Other benefits of Hanuman Chalisa and Bajran Baan path are:-

- It helps in reducing the effects of Sade Sati
- You can get rid of daunting thoughts by placing Hanuman Chalisa under your pillow.
- It helps in getting rid of the bad deeds which a person has done in this birth or even the previous birth
- It helps you in overcoming all the troubles and hurdles in your life
- It removes all the negativity from your mind and soul
- It bring happiness and peace in the family members
- You can overcome Mangal Dosh with Lord Hanuman’s blessings
- Lord Hanuman being the savoir will help your get relief from any kind of physical illness.
- You can overcome any Black Magic or Tona totka with this puja


With Astrospeak, show you true dedication to Lord Hanuman and get a Hanuman chalisa and Bajrang Baan puja done by us on your behalf. This is going to take place on December 28, 2016.


Learned pandits will perform this puja and will adhere to all the Vedic rituals and rules. We will also send you a link through which you can attend this puja virtually. On the completion of the puja, Prasad will be couriered to you on the address provided.


Prasad will include:-

- An energized reel of “Kalava” or a holy string
- Orange vermilion (Sindoor) offered to Lord Hanuman
- Prasad offered to Lord Hanuman will also be sent
- An energized idol of Lord Hanuman.

How To Observe Hanuman Jayanti Fast:-

 Hanuman Jayanti Vrat, also known as Hanuman Jayanti Upvaas, is observed on the Chaitra Purnima day, that is, a full moon day in the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar. While in Maharashtra and other western parts of India, Hanuman Jayanti Vrat is observed on the day prior to Hanuman Jayanti, people in North India fast on the actual Hanuman Jayanti day. Unlike most Hindu fasts and vrats that are practiced by women, Hanuman Jayanti Vrat is observed mostly by men, particularly the wrestlers and body builders. Preparations for the festival and fast begin early in the morning. Homes are thoroughly cleaned and idols, body or pictures of Lord Hanuman are purified. These are then smeared with Sindoor and a lamp is lit next.

 Prayers are chanted and sweets and bananas are offered. Devotees recite the Hanuman Chalisa. Depending upon the caliber of a devotee, the Chalisa is repeated several times. The recitation of Hanuman Arati, or Aarti Bajrangbali Ki, marks the end of the prayers. People who opt for observing vrat or upvaas on Hanuman Jayanti keep it from sunrise to sunset. However, people who observe a partial fast consume fruits and milk, with some exceptions of eating Sabudana Kihichdi. The fast is broken by offering puja in the evening or visiting a Hanuman Temple in the neighborhood. However, there are devotees who end their fast only on the next day in the morning.