Description
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Panditji reads contributors’ names as part of the ceremony.
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Hanuman is the incarnation of Shiva or Rudra and embodies devotion in its purest form. The character of Hanuman teaches us about the unlimited power that lies unused within each one of us. Hanuman directed all his energies towards the worship of Lord Rama. His undying devotion made him such that he became free from all physical fatigue and limitations physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Hanuman’s only desire was to go on serving Rama. He perfectly exemplifies dasyabhava, devotion that bonds the Master and the servant. His greatness lies in his complete mergence with his Lord, which also formed the base of his good-natured qualities.
Hanuman is the protector. As such, there is a belief among people that those who worship Hanuman will be free from kalajadu (left-handed tantrics).
Hanuman, son of Vayu, the wind god, was raised by King Kesar and Hanuman’s mother, Anjana Devi. An ardent devotee of Rama, he is a central character in the Ramayana. He is also known as Anjaneya, Vayuputhra, and Bhajrangbali.
According to the Ramayana, after the war, the time arrived for Rama to depart to his heavenly abode. Many of Rama’s entourage, including Sugriva, decided to depart with him. Hanuman, however, made a request to Rama that Hanuman would remain on earth as long as Rama’s name was venerated by people. Sita Ram accorded Hanuman that desire, and granted that his image could be installed at various public places, so he could listen to people chanting Rama’s name. He is one of the Vedic immortals.
Why should we worship Hanuman?
On Tuesdays, and in some cases on Saturday, many people fast in honor of Hanuman and give special offerings to him. In times of trouble, it is common for people to chant the name of Hanuman or sing his hymn (Hanuman Chalisa) and proclaim, “Bhajrangbali Ki Jai!” (Victory to thee!) with thunderbolt strength. Once every year, on the tenth day (Dashami) of the Vedic month Vaishakha, Hanuman Jayanthi (birthday) is celebrated.