Hanuman Jayanti: Celebrating the Devotion and Strength of Lord Hanuman
Hanuman Jayanti is a sacred festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, the embodiment of strength, devotion and selfless service. Observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Chaitra month as it will be celebrated on 12th April this year. This day holds deep spiritual significance for millions of devotees across India and beyond. Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hindu history, is worshipped for his unparalleled courage, unwavering devotion to Lord Rama and divine powers.
Lord Hanuman was born to King Kesari and Anjana, who were blessed by Lord Vayu, the wind god. This is why Lord Hanuman is also known as Pavanputra (son of wind). At the time of his birth, he was given the name Maruti and was also fondly called Sundara by his mother Anjani. The name “Hanuman” came later. As a child, when he tried to leap toward the sun thinking it was a ripe mango, Lord Indra struck him with a thunderbolt. It hit his jaw (hanu in Sanskrit), causing it to swell. From then on, he was known as Hanuman.
The gods were alarmed. To restore balance, Lord Indra struck Hanuman with a thunderbolt, causing him to fall to Earth. Moved by this, Lord Vayu withdrew air from the universe in anger. To pacify him, the gods blessed Lord Hanuman with:
- Immense strength
- Wisdom
- Invincibility
- Immortality
Yet, due to his playful nature, sages cursed him to forget his powers — until reminded.
However, due to his mischievous nature, the sages cursed him so that he would forget his divine abilities until someone reminded him of them. This moment comes in the Ramayana when Jambavan also known as Jambavant and Jambavanta, the wise bear, reminds Lord Hanuman of his immense strength before he leaps across the ocean to reach Lanka.
Lord Hanuman plays a pivotal role in the Ramayana, where his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama is the highlight of his character. Some of his greatest contributions include:
- Finding Goddess Sita in Lanka – Lord Hanuman crosses the ocean, meets Goddess Sita in Ashoka Vatika, and delivers Lord Rama’s message of hope by handing over Lord Rama’s ring to Goddess Sita.
- Burning Lanka – When Ravana’s forces try to capture him and put his tail on fire, Lord Hanuman sets Lanka ablaze with his fiery tail as a warning of Lord Rama’s impending attack.
- Lifting the Sanjeevani Mountain – To save Lakshmana, Lord Hanuman lifts an entire mountain containing the Sanjeevani herb, displaying his divine power and dedication.
- The Ultimate Devotee – Unlike other warriors, Lord Hanuman fights not for personal glory, but solely for his beloved Lord Rama.
These acts demonstrate his selflessness, strength and boundless devotion, making him a symbol of Bhakti (devotion) and Seva (service).
Lord Hanuman is not just a warrior but also a wise scholar, a protector and a divine force. His greatness can be seen in various aspects of his personality:
- No Ego: Despite unmatched power, he never boasts. He serves silently.
Ask yourself: Do you let your achievements speak, or do you speak for them?
- Humbleness: He never acts superior. He bows before elders, respects all beings.
- Punctuality: Every task in the Ramayana is completed on time — whether it’s leaping to Lanka or bringing Sanjeevani. Are you managing your time with purpose?
- Leaving Nothing to Luck: He doesn’t wait for things to happen. He takes initiative, uses intelligence and works relentlessly.
- Loyalty: He stands by Lord Rama in all situations. His loyalty is never for personal gain.
- Courage with Clarity: He takes bold decisions, but always for a higher cause — not for ego or emotion.
- Symbol of Strength and Fearlessness: Lord Hanuman represents unmatched physical and mental strength. He is called Mahabali (the mighty one) because he can overcome any obstacle, reminding devotees that faith and determination can conquer all challenges.
- The Embodiment of Devotion: Lord Hanuman’s love for Lord Rama is the greatest example of pure devotion (Bhakti Yoga). His undying loyalty teaches that true devotion is selfless and unwavering.
- The Wisest and Most Knowledgeable: Though known for his strength, Lord Hanuman was also a scholar who mastered the Vedas and scriptures. His wisdom teaches that true power comes with knowledge and humility.
- The Ever-Living (Chiranjeevi): Lord Hanuman is considered a Chiranjeevi (immortal being) who continues to exist in the world. It is believed that those who sincerely chant his name receive his divine protection.
- A Symbol of Protection and Courage: Lord Hanuman is worshipped as a protector against evil spirits and negative energies. His image is often found at doors and temples to ward off fear and danger.
Lord Hanuman Jayanti is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm across India. Some of the key rituals include:
- Visiting Lord Hanuman Temples – Devotees offer sindoor (vermilion), flowers and laddoos to Lord Hanuman, as he is believed to be fond of them.
- Reading the Hanuman Chalisa – This powerful hymn is recited to seek strength, courage and divine blessings.
- Fasting and Bhajans – Many devotees fast and organize bhajans (devotional songs) in praise of Lord Hanuman.
- Prayers for Protection – Lord Hanuman Jayanti is considered an auspicious time to seek protection from evil forces and negativity.
Lord Hanuman’s life is not just a religious tale; it offers valuable lessons that are relevant even today:
- Courage in Adversity – No challenge is too big if faced with faith and determination.
- Selfless Service – Helping others without seeking rewards leads to true greatness.
- Unwavering Devotion – Dedication and commitment, whether in spirituality or daily life, lead to success.
- Humility and Strength Go Together – True strength comes from humility and wisdom.
Lord Hanuman is the perfect idol for aviation and for all of us in the aviation industry. His legendary leap to the sun and his flight across the ocean to Lanka show unmatched command over the skies—long before aircraft existed. His ability to defy gravity, cover vast distances with precision and carry vital missions with urgency mirrors the core of aviation: speed, purpose and reliability. Like aviators, Hanuman always remained calm under pressure, executed missions with discipline and never left anything to chance. His commitment to duty, punctuality and selfless service make him a timeless role model for pilots, crew and ground staff alike. In every take-off, every safe landing and every decision made with care and responsibility, we can see Hanuman’s spirit guiding us through the skies.
Hanuman Jayanti is not just a celebration of a deity but a reminder of the power of faith, devotion, and inner strength. Lord Hanuman remains a timeless figure of inspiration for people across all walks of life.
By following his teachings, we can develop courage, wisdom and selflessness, making our lives more meaningful and fulfilling.
By: Captain. Rahul Sharma (Flight Operations)