Hanuman Jayanti is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, the devoted disciple of Lord Rama and the embodiment of strength, devotion, and selfless service. Devotees across India observe this auspicious day by offering prayers, chanting Hanuman Chalisa, and preparing a special bhog (sacred food offering) to seek his blessings. Hanuman is known to be an ardent devotee of Lord Rama and is believed to be fond of specific foods, making these offerings an integral part of the celebrations.
Importance of Offering Bhog to Lord Hanuman
In Hindu tradition, offering bhog to deities is a way of expressing devotion and gratitude. Lord Hanuman is associated with simplicity and celibacy, and therefore, the offerings made to him are satvik (pure and vegetarian). Devotees believe that offering these sacred foods pleases Lord Hanuman and brings strength, protection, and success in life.
Bhog offered to Lord Hanuman this Hanuman Jayanti
Besan Laddoo
Besan Laddoo holds a significant place as a traditional offering, or "Bhog," during Hanuman Jayanti. The sweet, made from roasted gram flour, ghee, and sugar, is considered a favorite of Lord Hanuman. Devotees prepare these golden spheres with devotion, often adding cardamom and nuts for flavor. Offering Besan Laddoo symbolizes sweetness, devotion, and the seeking of Lord Hanuman's blessings for strength and prosperity. This practice reflects the deep-rooted cultural and religious significance of food in Hindu rituals.
Chana Gud
Chana Gud, a simple offering of roasted chickpeas and jaggery, holds significant importance as a Bhog (offering) during Hanuman Jayanti. This traditional offering is believed to be dear to Lord Hanuman, symbolizing strength and sweetness. The preparation is straightforward, involving the combination of roasted chana with jaggery, creating a humble yet powerful offering. This practice reflects the devotion and reverence towards Lord Hanuman, and it is a common practice during the Hanuman Jayanti festival.
Kesari Bhaat
Kesari Bhaat, a fragrant and sweet saffron-infused rice dish, is a traditional offering (Bhog) during Hanuman Jayanti. It's made with rice, sugar, ghee, saffron, and nuts, and is considered a rich and auspicious dish to offer to Lord Hanuman. The saffron gives it a vibrant yellow color and a distinct aroma, making it a special treat for this festive occasion.
Imarti
During Hanuman Jayanti, offering "bhog" (devotional food) is a significant part of the celebrations, and Imarti is among the cherished sweets prepared for this purpose. Imarti, with its intricate, spiral design and sweet, syrupy flavor, is considered a delightful offering. This sweet, made from urad dal batter, deep-fried, and soaked in sugar syrup, is often included in the prasad distributed to devotees. Its presence in the Hanuman Jayanti bhog reflects the devotion and joy that mark this auspicious occasion.
Motichoor Laddoo
Motichoor Laddoos hold a significant place as a cherished Bhog offering during Hanuman Jayanti. These sweet, tiny spheres, made from gram flour, sugar syrup, and often infused with cardamom, symbolize joy and auspiciousness. Offering Motichoor Ladoos to Lord Hanuman is a tradition rooted in devotion, with devotees believing that this sweet offering pleases the deity and invokes his blessings for strength, courage, and prosperity. The golden hue and delightful taste of the Ladoos add to the festive spirit of Hanuman Jayanti, making them an integral part of the celebrations.
Offering bhog to Lord Hanuman on Hanuman Jayanti is a way of showing devotion, gratitude, and reverence to the mighty deity. Each food item offered holds spiritual significance and is believed to strengthen the devotee’s bond with Lord Hanuman. By making these sacred offerings with love and sincerity, devotees seek his blessings for strength, wisdom, and protection in their lives.
Jai Shree Ram! Jai Bajrangbali!
