Hanuman Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman, is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm across India. This auspicious day falls on the 15th day of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Chaitra, which usually falls in April or May. On this day, devotees perform special prayers and offer food items to Lord Hanuman. In this article, we will take a closer look at the favourite food offerings of Lord Hanuman and their significance.
Celebrating Hanuman Jayanti: Brief Overview
Hanuman Jayanti is an important festival in Hinduism and is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in the religion. Hanuman, also known as Bajrangbali and Pawanputra, is considered to be an embodiment of strength, devotion and loyalty. He played a vital role in the Ramayana, the epic story of Lord Rama, and is worshipped by millions of people around the world.
On the day of Hanuman Jayanti, devotees wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and visit the temple of Lord Hanuman. They offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other food items to the deity and perform special prayers and rituals. Devotees also recite the Hanuman Chalisa, a hymn composed in praise of Lord Hanuman, and seek his blessings for a healthy and prosperous life.
The Favourite Food Offerings of Lord Hanuman
Lord Hanuman is believed to have a special liking for certain food items, and these are traditionally offered to him on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular food offerings to Lord Hanuman:
Tamarind Rice
Tamarind rice, also known as Puliyogare or Pulihora, is a popular South Indian dish that is offered as prasad to Lord Hanuman. This tangy and spicy rice dish is made with tamarind pulp, rice, and a blend of spices and is considered to be one of Lord Hanuman’s favourite dishes. The sourness of the tamarind is said to represent the bitterness of life, and the spices represent the challenges that one must overcome to succeed.
Sabudana Kheer
Sabudana kheer, also known as Sagoo Kheer, is a sweet dish made with tapioca pearls, milk, and sugar. This creamy and delicious dessert is often offered to Lord Hanuman on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti. It is believed that Lord Hanuman had a sweet tooth, and therefore, this dessert is a popular item in his bhog.
Jaggery Dry Fruits Ladoo
Ladoos made with jaggery, dry fruits, and wheat flour are another popular offering to Lord Hanuman. These delicious and nutritious sweets are easy to make and are considered to be one of Lord Hanuman’s favourite food items. The ladoo represents the cycle of life, and the jaggery represents the sweetness of devotion.
Other Food Offerings
Apart from these three main food offerings, devotees also offer fruits, sweets, and other delicacies to Lord Hanuman on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti. Some popular items include bananas, coconut, laddoos, kheer, and peda. These offerings are made with love and devotion and are believed to please the deity and bring blessings to the devotees.
Significance of Food Offerings to Lord Hanuman
Food offerings are an integral part of Hindu worship and are believed to symbolize devotion, love, and respect for the deity. When we offer food to Lord Hanuman, we are expressing our gratitude for his blessings and seeking his divine grace. The act of offering food is also seen as a way of purifying oneself and seeking forgiveness for any sins or mistakes that one may have committed.
In addition to the spiritual significance, food offerings also have a practical aspect. Lord Hanuman is known for his strength and vitality, and therefore, the food offerings are made to provide him with the nourishment and energy he needs to continue his divine mission of serving Lord Rama.
Conclusion
Hanuman Jayanti is a festival of devotion, faith, and love for Lord Hanuman. The food offerings made on this occasion are a way of expressing our gratitude and seeking his blessings. Tamarind rice, sabudana kheer, and jaggery dry fruits ladoo are some of the most popular food items offered to Lord Hanuman. These offerings not only provide nourishment but also symbolize our devotion and love for the deity. May Lord Hanuman bless us all with strength, courage, and prosperity!