Hanuman Jayanti is observed as a religious festival in many Rama temples across Tamil Nadu, though it may not be as elaborate as in Hanuman-specific temples. Since Lord Hanuman is one of the most revered devotees of Lord Rama, his birth anniversary is celebrated with reverence in Rama temples, particularly those that have shrines dedicated to Hanuman within the temple complex.
In such Rama temples, Hanuman Jayanti is marked by special poojas, recitations of the Ramayana, chanting of Hanuman Chalisa, and bhajans glorifying Hanuman’s devotion to Rama. Devotees offer butter, vadas, betel leaves, and garlands to Hanuman, and seek his blessings for strength and protection.
Temples such as Ramaswamy Temple in Kumbakonam, Sri Rama Temple in Ayodhya Mandapam (Chennai), and Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple in Thirupullani also observe this festival with devotion. However, the scale of the festival may vary based on local traditions and temple prominence.
Hanuman Jayanti is observed on different dates in various parts of India. In Tamil Nadu, it is traditionally celebrated in the Tamil month of Margazhi, which corresponds to December–January in the Gregorian calendar.
📅 Time of Hanuman Jayanti in Tamil Nadu:
- Date: Margazhi Amavasya (New Moon Day in the Tamil month of Margazhi)
- Gregorian Calendar: Falls typically in December or January (exact date varies each year)
- 2025 Example Date: In 2025, Margazhi Amavasya is expected to fall on January 29, 2025 (subject to lunar calendar alignment)
This observance in Tamil Nadu is different from North Indian Hanuman Jayanti, which is celebrated during Chaitra Purnima (March–April).
Key Rituals on the Day:
- Abhishekam (ritual bathing) of Lord Hanuman
- Recitation of Sundara Kandam from the Ramayana
- Offerings of butter, vadai, betel leaves, and garlands
- Chanting of Hanuman Chalisa and other devotional hymns