Introduction: The Glory of Sankat Mochan Hanuman
In Hinduism, Lord Hanuman is considered a symbol of strength, devotion, and unwavering loyalty to his master. He is called 'Sankat Mochan', which means the remover of sorrows and obstacles. There are countless Hanuman temples in every corner of India, but some are world-famous for their antiquity, amazing architecture, and miraculous beliefs. Whether it is the Jakhoo Temple nestled in the lap of the Himalayas in the North or the Namakkal Anjaneyar made of massive rocks in the South, every temple has its own unique saga. Devotees travel to these holy places for solutions to their problems and mental peace. In this article, we will provide a detailed description of 10 such prominent Hanuman temples in India, which are not only religiously significant but also a center of attraction for tourism and history lovers.
1. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
Varanasi, considered one of the oldest cities in the world, holds a special place for devotees with the 'Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple' located on the banks of the Assi River. This temple was established in the 16th century by the famous saint and poet Goswami Tulsidas. According to legends, Tulsidas had a divine vision of Hanuman ji at this very spot.
The specialty of this temple is that the idol of Hanuman ji here is made of clay and he is looking towards Lord Ram. According to astrology, visiting here is considered extremely beneficial for getting rid of the defects of Saturn (Shani) and Mars (Mangal). Every year, the 'Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh' is organized, where the country's legendary classical musicians perform. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, huge crowds of devotees gather here, and the chanting of Hanuman Chalisa resonates throughout.
2. Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh)
Located in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, 'Hanuman Garhi' is considered the protector of Ayodhya. It is believed that before visiting the Ram Janmabhoomi, a devotee should take permission from Bajrangbali at Hanuman Garhi. This temple is situated on a high mound, which requires devotees to climb 76 steps to reach.
The construction of this temple is believed to be around the 10th century. Here, Hanuman ji is seated in his childhood form in the lap of his mother Anjani. The architecture of the temple is like a fortress, with bastions built all around. According to history, the Nawabs of Awadh also expressed their devotion to this temple and helped in its expansion. The atmosphere here is so pure and energetic that devotees forget all their fatigue as soon as they reach the top.
3. Salasar Balaji Temple, Churu (Rajasthan)
Located in the Churu district of Rajasthan, the Salasar Balaji Temple is famous for the most unique form of Hanuman ji. Here, the idol of Hanuman ji features a beard and mustache, which is rarely seen in other temples in India. This temple came into existence in 1754 from an idol found by a farmer while plowing a field.
People have such unwavering faith in Salasar Dham that devotees offer 'Savamani' (an offering of 50 kg of food) upon the fulfillment of their wishes. Excellent glass and silver carving work has been done on the walls of the temple. Huge fairs are held here on Chaitra Purnima and Ashvin Purnima, where lakhs of devotees arrive with chants of 'Jai Balaji'.
4. Mehandipur Balaji Temple, Dausa (Rajasthan)
Mehandipur Balaji Temple is known for its spiritual healing and liberation from negative energies (supernatural afflictions). Located in the Dausa district of Rajasthan, this temple is built amidst the Aravalli hills. Here, Hanuman ji is worshipped in his 'child form', hence he is called Balaji.
There are three main deities in this temple: Balaji Maharaj, Pretraj Sarkar, and Bhairav Baba. The prayers and rituals performed here are different from other temples. Devotees offer 'Darkhast' and 'Peshi' here so that they can be freed from the influence of evil forces. The temple has strict rules, such as not taking any food, drink, or prasad back home from here. A large number of people come here to see this link between science and spirituality.
5. Jakhoo Temple, Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
Located on 'Jakhoo Hill', the highest peak of Shimla, the capital of the land of gods Himachal Pradesh, this temple is linked to the Ramayana era. The story goes that when Hanuman ji was going to get the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshman ji's life, he rested on this hill. Here he met Yaksha Rishi.
Situated at an altitude of 8,050 feet above sea level, this temple has a massive 108-foot tall statue of Hanuman ji, which is visible from miles away. Surrounded by dense cedar forests, this temple not only provides religious solace but also introduces tourists to the panoramic views of the Himalayas. There is a large number of monkeys here, whom devotees feed fruits and gram, considering them a form of Hanuman ji.
6. Bade Hanuman Ji (Reclining Hanuman), Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)
The 'Bade Hanuman Ji' temple located on the Sangam bank of Prayagraj is the only temple in the world where a reclining idol of Hanuman ji is worshipped. This idol is about 20 feet long. According to legends, after the victory over Lanka, when Hanuman ji was tired, he lay down at this place to rest.
During the monsoon, when the water level of the Ganges river rises, the river water reaches the sanctum sanctorum of the temple and touches the feet of Hanuman ji. This is called 'Hanuman ji's Ganga Snan' (Ganges bath) and is considered very auspicious. During the Kumbh and Magh Mela, crores of devotees come here for darshan. Local people also call him the 'Kotwal of Prayag'.
7. Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Temple, Sarangpur (Gujarat)
Located in the Botad district of Gujarat, the 'Kashtabhanjan Hanuman Temple' is associated with the Swaminarayan sect. 'Kashtabhanjan' means the crusher of sorrows. The most special thing about this temple is that Shani Dev is sitting in female form at the feet of Hanuman ji.
It is believed that when the wrath of Shani Dev increased significantly on the people, Hanuman ji decided to punish him. To escape Hanuman ji's anger, Shani Dev took a female form and sought refuge at his feet. Therefore, it is said that just by having darshan in this temple, a person gets relief from the troubles of Shani Dosha and Saade Saati. There is a huge collection of gold and silver ornaments near the statue of Hanuman ji here.
8. Bala Hanuman Temple, Jamnagar (Gujarat)
Located on the banks of Ranmal Lake in Jamnagar, the 'Bala Hanuman Temple' is listed in the 'Guinness Book of World Records'. The main reason for the fame of this temple is the continuous 24-hour uninterrupted chanting of 'Shri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram' since August 1, 1964.
This temple was established in 1964 by Shri Prembhikshuji Maharaj. The devotional energy here is so strong that whoever comes here gets lost in the tune of Ram's name. When the uninterrupted Sankirtan continues at night, a different kind of spiritual peace is felt in the entire city of Jamnagar. This temple is an excellent example of simplicity and continuous devotion.
9. Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple, Namakkal (Tamil Nadu)
Located in the state of Tamil Nadu in South India, the Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple is famous for its giant statue. Here, an 18-foot tall statue of Hanuman ji has been carved out of a single stone (Monolithic Statue). A unique feature of this temple is that there is no roof over this massive statue of Hanuman ji.
This statue stands under the open sky and is looking towards the Narasimha temple located opposite. Hanuman ji has a prayer bead (japa mala) in his hands and a sword tied to his waist. According to local belief, Hanuman ji stood here to protect Goddess Lakshmi. The Dravidian architecture and peaceful atmosphere here mesmerize the devotees.
10. Hanuman Dhara, Chitrakoot (Madhya Pradesh/Uttar Pradesh)
Located on the hills of Chitrakoot, 'Hanuman Dhara' is an extremely holy and natural place. Here, a thin stream of water falls from the top of the mountain, which falls directly on the idol of Hanuman ji. The story goes that after the burning of Lanka, when Hanuman ji's body was burning, Lord Ram created this water stream with his arrow so that Hanuman ji could get coolness.
To reach this temple, one has to climb about 360 steps, but the peace and natural beauty found after reaching the top is amazing. A bird's eye view of the entire Chitrakoot is visible from here. Devotees take this holy water as prasad and also consider it beneficial for skin diseases.
Conclusion: Importance of Spiritual Journey
These 10 temples of Hanuman ji in India are not just religious sites, but they are symbols of our unwavering faith, rich history, and amazing architecture. Whether you are in search of peace, want liberation from crises, or just want to see India's heritage closely, a visit to these temples can bring a positive change in your life. Devotion to Hanuman ji teaches us that humility and the spirit of service are the greatest strengths. Be sure to include these holy abodes in your list when planning your next religious trip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Question 1: Which day is considered most auspicious for the darshan of Hanuman ji?
Answer: In Hinduism, Tuesday and Saturday are considered the most special and auspicious days for the worship of Hanuman ji. - Question 2: Are Mehandipur Balaji and Salasar Balaji temples the same?
Answer: No, both temples are in Rajasthan but are located in different districts. Mehandipur Balaji (Dausa) is famous for liberation from supernatural afflictions, while Salasar Balaji (Churu) is known for its idol with a beard and mustache and for the fulfillment of wishes. - Question 3: Where is the temple of Reclining Hanuman ji located?
Answer: The temple of Reclining Hanuman ji (Bade Hanuman ji) is located near the Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. - Question 4: Why is the name of Jamnagar's Bala Hanuman Temple in the Guinness Book?
Answer: An uninterrupted chant of 'Ram Naam' has been going on here continuously without stopping since August 1, 1964; it is recorded in the Guinness Book due to this record. - Question 5: Is there any special dress code for visiting these temples?
Answer: Most temples do not have a strict dress code, but it is considered appropriate to wear modest and traditional clothes to maintain religious decorum.
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