Hanuman Jayanti 2026: Date, Puja & Significance
The birth of Lord Hanuman
Hanuman Jayanti celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, the devoted companion of Rama and one of the most beloved deities in the Hindu pantheon. In North India it is widely observed on the full moon of Chaitra.
Hanuman is worshipped as the deity of strength, courage, devotion and selfless service. The festival draws large crowds to Hanuman temples for recitations of the Hanuman Chalisa and devotional singing.
Hanuman Jayanti 2026 Date
Hanuman Jayanti 2026 is on Thursday, 2 April 2026. It is observed on Chaitra Shukla Purnima — the Purnima tithi of the Shukla paksha in the lunar month of Chaitra.
Hindu festival dates follow the lunar calendar and can vary by a day between regions and traditions. Always confirm the date and timings with your local panchang.
The Significance of Hanuman Jayanti
Hanuman is the son of Anjana and the wind god Vayu, and an incarnation of Lord Shiva’s energy. From childhood he possessed extraordinary strength and the ability to fly, change his size, and overcome any obstacle.
In the Ramayana, Hanuman is Rama’s most faithful servant. He leaps across the ocean to Lanka, finds Sita, carries the Sanjeevani mountain to save Lakshmana, and stands by Rama through the war — the very picture of loyalty and fearless devotion.
For devotees, Hanuman represents the ideal that strength is meaningful only when joined to humility and devotion. He is invoked for protection, courage and the removal of obstacles, and Tuesday and Saturday are considered his special days.
Hanuman Jayanti Puja Vidhi
- Bathe early, wear clean clothes and clean the puja space; an image or idol of Hanuman is placed on the altar.
- Offer sindoor (vermilion), a garland of flowers, and traditional offerings such as laddoo, bananas and betel.
- Light a lamp of ghee or mustard oil and offer incense before the deity.
- Recite the Hanuman Chalisa, the Bajrang Baan, or the Sundara Kanda of the Ramayana.
- Conclude with the Hanuman aarti and distribute prasad among devotees.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Hanuman Jayanti in 2026?
Hanuman Jayanti in 2026 falls on Thursday, 2 April 2026, on Chaitra Purnima.
Why is Hanuman Jayanti celebrated?
Hanuman Jayanti marks the birth of Lord Hanuman, the devoted companion of Rama. He is worshipped as the deity of strength, courage, devotion and selfless service.
What is offered to Hanuman on this day?
Devotees offer sindoor (vermilion), flower garlands, and traditional offerings such as laddoo, bananas and betel leaves, along with a lamp of ghee or mustard oil.
Why is the Hanuman Chalisa recited on Hanuman Jayanti?
The Hanuman Chalisa is a forty-verse hymn in praise of Hanuman. Reciting it on Hanuman Jayanti is believed to invoke his blessings of strength, protection and the removal of obstacles.