Hanuman Pooja: A Complete Guide
Hanuman Pooja: Invoking Strength and Devotion
A detailed guide on performing the Hanuman Pooja, dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
The Purpose of the Pooja
Hanuman Pooja is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the epitome of devotion, strength, and courage. It is performed to seek his blessings for protection, courage, and success in overcoming obstacles.
Items Required
- Hanuman idol or image
- A raised platform
- Red cloth
- Red flowers
- Sandalwood paste
- Kumkum (vermilion)
- Incense sticks
- Ghee lamp
- Betel leaves and nuts
- Fruits (especially bananas)
- Sweets (especially ladoos)
- Ramayana text
The Pooja Procedure
- Preparation: Clean the pooja area and set up the raised platform. Spread the red cloth and place the Hanuman idol or image on it.
- Invocation: Light the ghee lamp and incense sticks. Invoke Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles.
- Offerings: Offer red flowers, sandalwood paste, and kumkum to Lord Hanuman. Offer betel leaves, nuts, bananas, and ladoos.
- Hanuman Chalisa: Recite the Hanuman Chalisa, a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
- Ramayana Reading: Read passages from the Ramayana, particularly those describing Hanuman's devotion and valor.
- Hanuman Aarti: Perform the Hanuman Aarti with a ghee lamp, singing devotional songs dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
- Prayer: Offer your prayers and ask for blessings of protection, courage, and success in overcoming obstacles.
- Distribution: Distribute the prasad (blessed food) to everyone.
Hanuman Mantra
Mantra: Om Han Hanumate Namaha
Transliteration: Om Han Hanumate Namaha
Breakdown:
- Om: The primordial sound.
- Han: The seed mantra for Hanuman.
- Hanumate: To Hanuman.
- Namaha: Salutations.
Meaning: "Om. Salutations to Lord Hanuman."
Deity: Lord Hanuman.
Origin Story: Lord Hanuman is a devotee of Lord Rama and is known for his unwavering devotion, strength, and courage. He played a crucial role in the Ramayana.
How and When to Chant: This mantra can be chanted daily, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Chant with devotion and a clear intention to seek Hanuman's blessings.
Benefits: Chanting this mantra and performing the Hanuman Pooja is believed to bring protection, courage, strength, and success in overcoming obstacles.