Introduction

Hanuman Puja is a sacred ritual dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the embodiment of strength, courage, devotion, and selfless service. It is performed to seek his blessings for protection, overcoming challenges, and attaining inner peace and wisdom. This simple and complete guide will help you perform Hanuman Puja with devotion.

Who is Lord Hanuman?

Lord Hanuman, also known as Maruti or Anjaneya, is a revered deity in Hinduism. He is a symbol of immense strength, loyalty, and fearlessness. Lord Hanuman played a crucial role in the Ramayana, where he demonstrated unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. He is often depicted as a monkey-faced deity who can defeat demons and remove obstacles with his immense power. Hanuman's blessings are sought for courage, mental strength, and the removal of obstacles in life. His life and qualities have made him a symbol of devotion, purity, and service.

History of Hanuman Puja

Hanuman Puja has been practiced for centuries by devotees seeking his blessings for strength, wisdom, and protection. The ritual is rooted in the epic Ramayana, where Lord Hanuman, as a devoted follower of Lord Rama, performed miraculous feats, including flying across the ocean to rescue Sita, burning down Lanka, and bringing the life-saving herb for Lord Lakshman. As a deity known for his boundless energy, loyalty, and bravery, Lord Hanuman’s puja became a means to invoke these qualities in one’s life. Over time, it became a practice not only for warriors and rulers but also for common people, seeking his blessings for both physical and mental strength.

Preparation for Hanuman Puja

1.Clean and Purify the Home: Clean the puja room and the house to create a peaceful environment. Light incense or burn dried cow dung cakes to purify the space.

2.Decorate Your Home: Use flowers, rangoli, and lights to bring vibrancy and positivity.

3.Prepare Yourself: Take a bath, wear fresh or new clothes, and ensure a calm and devotional mindset.

4.Gather Puja Items (Samagri): Idol of Lord Hanuman. Kalash (pitcher) with water, a coin, and mango leaves. Flowers (especially marigold). Kumkum, turmeric, sandalwood paste. Sweets, fruits, puffed rice, batasha, and kheel. A diya (lamp) and incense sticks.

Steps to Perform Hanuman Pooja

1.Set the Puja Platform Place a clean cloth on a raised platform or table. Place a kalash filled with water and a coin, betel nut, and rice grains.

2.Position the Idol Place Lord Hanuman’s idol on the platform. Ensure the idol faces the direction of your choice (typically East or West).

3.Invoke the Deities Light a diya and incense sticks. Offer kumkum, turmeric, and flowers to the idol. Recite Lord Hanuman’s name or chant the Hanuman Chalisa with devotion.

4.Offer a Ritual Bath to the Idol Bathe the idol with clean water, followed by panchamrit, and then with water containing a coin. Wipe the idol clean with a soft cloth.

5.Make Offerings Offer flowers, kumkum, turmeric, and garlands to Lord Hanuman. Present sweets, fruits, puffed rice, and batasha to the idol. Sprinkle rice, coriander seeds, and batasha to symbolize abundance and blessings.

6.Perform the Aarti Light a diya and gently wave it in front of the idol. Sing the Hanuman Aarti or chant the Hanuman Stotra, offering your sincere prayers.

Special Rituals for Hanuman Puja

Begin the puja by reciting the Hanuman Ashtakshara Mantra to invoke his blessings. Offer prayers to Lord Rama before invoking Hanuman for divine grace. Recite the Hanuman Chalisa, as it is believed to remove obstacles and bring strength. Light diyas (earthen lamps) and place them around the house to spread positive energy.

Benefits of Hanuman Puja

1. Increases Strength and Courage: Regular worship of Lord Hanuman provides immense physical and mental strength, enabling you to overcome challenges with courage. Removes Obstacles: It helps remove obstacles and difficulties from your life, clearing the path for success and happiness.

2. Protection from Negative Energies: Lord Hanuman’s blessings provide protection from negative energies and evil forces, ensuring peace in your home and life.

3. Promotes Devotion and Mental Peace: Hanuman Puja instills qualities of devotion, loyalty, and mental peace, helping you stay calm and focused in difficult situations.

4. Improves Health: It is believed that regular worship can enhance overall health, curing ailments and boosting vitality.

Prasad Distribution

After the puja, offer the prasad to Lord Hanuman first. Share the prasad with everyone present as a symbol of unity, love, and blessings.

Conclusion

Hanuman Puja is a powerful way to seek Lord Hanuman’s blessings for strength, courage, and protection. By performing the puja with devotion and sincerity, you invite divine grace into your life, helping you overcome challenges and stay on the path of righteousness and wisdom.