Pankajnath Tiwari :-
Hanuman Bhakti, also known as devotion to Lord Hanuman, is a prominent aspect of Hinduism. Hanuman is a beloved deity in Hindu mythology and is revered for his strength, loyalty, and devotion to Lord Rama.
Bhakti, in general, refers to a deep and heartfelt devotion towards a particular deity or divine figure. Hanuman Bhakti involves cultivating a strong and unwavering love and devotion towards Lord Hanuman, considering him as a divine protector, guide, and a source of inspiration.
Devotees of Hanuman engage in various practices to express their Bhakti towards him. Some common practices include:
Chanting Hanuman Chalisa: The Hanuman Chalisa is a sacred hymn consisting of 40 verses that praise Hanuman’s virtues and exploits. Devotees recite or sing the Hanuman Chalisa to invoke his blessings and seek his protection.
Reciting Hanuman Mantras: Mantras dedicated to Hanuman, such as the “Om Hanumate Namaha” mantra, are chanted to establish a deep connection with him and invoke his divine presence.
Visiting Hanuman Temples: Devotees often visit temples dedicated to Hanuman to offer prayers and seek his blessings. These temples are adorned with Hanuman idols, and rituals like aarti (devotional ceremony with lamps) and prasad (offering of food) are performed.
Observing Hanuman Jayanti: Hanuman Jayanti is the celebration of Hanuman’s birth anniversary, which usually falls in the month of Chaitra (March/April). Devotees fast, engage in special prayers, and participate in processions to commemorate this auspicious occasion.
Reading and Studying Hanuman’s Life: Devotees read and study scriptures like the Ramayana, which narrate the divine acts of Lord Hanuman. This helps in deepening their understanding and connection with him.
Practicing Hanuman Bhakti Yoga: Hanuman Bhakti Yoga involves focusing one’s thoughts, emotions, and actions towards Hanuman, thereby cultivating a strong sense of devotion and surrender to him. It is a path of selfless love and service.
Hanuman Bhakti is believed to bestow several benefits, including protection from evil, fulfillment of desires, courage, strength, and spiritual growth. Devotees seek Hanuman’s blessings for overcoming challenges, obtaining wisdom, and progressing on the spiritual path.
Hanuman Aradhana: Aradhana refers to the worship and adoration of Hanuman. Devotees offer flowers, garlands, incense, and sacred items at Hanuman’s altar or shrine as a form of devotion. They may also perform abhishekam (ritualistic bathing of the deity) using sacred substances like water, milk, honey, and ghee.
Hanuman Katha and Satsangs: Hanuman Katha refers to the recitation or narration of stories and legends related to Hanuman’s divine exploits. Devotees gather to listen to these narratives, which inspire them with the qualities of devotion, valor, and righteousness. Satsangs, or spiritual gatherings, provide an opportunity for devotees to sing bhajans (devotional songs) dedicated to Hanuman and discuss his teachings.
Seva (Service): Hanuman is revered as the epitome of selfless service. Devotees emulate his spirit of seva by engaging in acts of kindness, charity, and volunteering. They may participate in activities such as distributing food to the needy, organizing medical camps, or assisting in the maintenance of Hanuman temples.
Hanuman Yantra and Amulets: Yantras are geometric diagrams representing the divine energy of Hanuman. Devotees may use Hanuman Yantras, either in the form of printed diagrams or inscribed metal plates, for meditation and seeking Hanuman’s blessings. Amulets or lockets with Hanuman’s image or symbols are also worn by devotees as a protective talisman.
Hanuman Aarti and Bhajans: Aarti is a devotional ritual involving the waving of a lamp or camphor flame before the deity while singing hymns in praise. Hanuman Aarti is performed to express love and gratitude towards Hanuman. Devotees also sing bhajans dedicated to Hanuman, which are devotional songs that extol his virtues and divine qualities.
Hanuman Jayanti Celebrations: Apart from fasting and prayers, Hanuman Jayanti celebrations include processions or parades known as Hanuman Jayanti Yatras. Devotees dress up as Hanuman, Rama, and other characters from the Ramayana and reenact scenes from Hanuman’s life. These processions are accompanied by bhajans, drumming, and chanting of Hanuman mantras.
Hanuman Sadhana: For those seeking a deeper spiritual connection with Hanuman, there are specific sadhanas (spiritual practices) dedicated to him. These may include meditation on Hanuman, recitation of specific mantras or stotras (devotional hymns), and following prescribed rituals under the guidance of a qualified guru or spiritual teacher.
Hanuman Vrat and Fasting: Devotees observe Hanuman Vrat or fast on specific days associated with Hanuman, such as Tuesdays and Saturdays. They abstain from consuming certain foods or undertake a complete fast as a mark of devotion. Fasting is believed to purify the mind and body, and devotees often break their fast by consuming simple vegetarian meals.
Hanuman Homa and Yagna: Homa or Yagna is a sacred fire ritual performed to invoke the blessings of deities. Devotees may arrange Hanuman Homas or Yagnas, where Vedic mantras and offerings are made into the sacred fire, accompanied by the chanting of Hanuman’s name and hymns. This practice is believed to invoke Hanuman’s presence and shower his grace.
Hanuman Prayers and Sankirtan: Devotees engage in heartfelt prayers to Hanuman, expressing their desires, seeking guidance, and surrendering to his divine will. Sankirtan refers to the collective chanting or singing of Hanuman bhajans, kirtans, and mantras in a group setting. The group energy enhances the devotional atmosphere and deepens the connection with Hanuman.
Hanuman Seva and Pilgrimages: Devotees undertake journeys to sacred places associated with Hanuman’s presence and divine deeds. Some famous pilgrimage sites include Hanuman temples in Hampi (Karnataka), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), and Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu). Devotees may also engage in voluntary service at these temples or participate in community service projects dedicated to Hanuman’s mission.
Hanuman Chintan and Japa: Chintan refers to contemplation or reflection upon Hanuman’s divine qualities, teachings, and stories. Devotees may engage in silent meditation or reflection on Hanuman’s form and attributes, deepening their connection with him. Japa involves the repetitive chanting of Hanuman’s name or specific mantras, such as the Hanuman Gayatri mantra or the Hanuman Moola Mantra.
Hanuman Festivals and Melas: Apart from Hanuman Jayanti, other festivals such as Hanuman Navami (celebrated on the ninth day of the Hindu month of Chaitra) are dedicated to Hanuman. These festivals are marked by special ceremonies, processions, cultural performances, and spiritual discourses centered around Hanuman’s divine grace and significance.
Hanuman’s Teachings and Moral Values: Devotees of Hanuman strive to imbibe his teachings and moral values in their lives. Hanuman is considered the embodiment of loyalty, humility, courage, devotion, and selflessness. By emulating these qualities, devotees seek to cultivate a righteous and virtuous character, inspired by Hanuman’s divine example.
