Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya

About Hanuman Garhi, Ayodhya

Hanuman Garhi Temple, Ayodhya – The Guardian of Ram’s Land

In the divine city of Ayodhya, where every stone echoes the tales of Ramayana, stands Hanuman Garhi, one of the holiest shrines dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the eternal devotee and protector of Shri Ram. This temple, perched on a small hill, is not only a place of worship but a symbol of unwavering faith and devotion.

According to legend, after Shri Ram ascended to the throne of Ayodhya post his exile and victory over Ravana, Hanuman Ji took it upon himself to guard the city. It is believed that Hanuman established his seat at this very hill, vowing to eternally protect Ram’s birthplace. Over time, this divine site came to be known as Hanuman Garhi – “The Fort of Hanuman”.

To reach the sanctum, devotees climb 76 steps, each one bringing them closer not just to the deity, but also to the essence of surrender, service, and strength that Hanuman embodies. Inside the garbhagriha, one finds a rare and endearing idol of Bal Hanuman (infant Hanuman) sitting on the lap of his mother, Mata Anjani. This depiction exudes divine love, innocence, and protection, offering darshan that fills hearts with deep spiritual joy.

The temple’s fort-like structure, thick walls, and majestic gateways symbolize Hanuman’s protective nature. Devotees from across the world visit this temple before heading to Ram Janmabhoomi, as it is said, “Ram ke darshan se pehle Hanuman ka darshan avashyak hai” – for it is by Hanuman’s grace that one can truly reach Ram.

During festivals like Hanuman Jayanti and Ram Navami, Hanuman Garhi transforms into a vibrant center of celebration, where chants of “Jai Bajrang Bali” reverberate through the air, and the city is adorned with lights, flowers, and faith.

Hanuman Garhi is not just a temple—it is a living embodiment of bhakti (devotion), seva (service), and shakti (strength). It continues to remind us that true devotion lies in surrender, and that Hanuman, the guardian of Ayodhya, still watches over Ram’s city, shielding it with his invisible presence and infinite love.

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Daily Rituals

The daily worship at Hanuman Garhi is conducted with deep reverence, discipline, and in accordance with ancient traditions of Vaishnav and Shaiva Tantra. The temple follows a well-structured daily ritual sequence, beginning before sunrise and concluding after sunset, ensuring that Lord Hanuman is worshipped with complete devotion and honor throughout the day.

1. Mangala Aarti (Early Morning Aarti)

The day begins during Brahma Muhurta, around 4:00 AM – 5:00 AM, with the Mangala Aarti, a sacred ritual to awaken the deity. Priests chant Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand verses, and mantras while offering incense, lamps, and fresh flowers. Devotees believe this Aarti removes all negativities and invites divine protection for the day.

2. Shringar and Alankar

After the Mangala Aarti, Lord Hanuman is bathed (Abhishek) and adorned with fresh clothes, garlands, chandan (sandalwood paste), sindoor (vermilion), and perfumes. In Hanuman Garhi, Sindoor is considered especially sacred, as it is believed that Lord Hanuman himself smeared it all over his body for Lord Ram’s long life.

3. Rajbhog and Bhog Aarti

Later in the morning, devotees offer Rajbhog, which includes traditional sweets, fruits, and delicacies. This is followed by Bhog Aarti, where devotees sing praises and offer gratitude. All the offerings are distributed as prasad among the devotees.

4. Afternoon Seva and Darshan

Throughout the day, devotees continue to visit, reciting Hanuman Chalisa, offering ladoos (a favorite of Hanuman Ji), coconuts, and red flags. The temple maintains a tranquil and welcoming aura, allowing visitors to sit in prayer and reflection.

5. Sandhya Aarti (Evening Aarti)

As the sun sets, the temple becomes alive with the Sandhya Aarti, a grand ritual involving large lamps, conch blowing, and collective chanting. The sound of “Jai Bajrang Bali” fills the air, and the energy of devotion is palpable. This Aarti is considered especially auspicious to ward off evil and bring peace to one’s home.

6. Shayan Aarti (Night Ritual)

Before closing the temple for the night, a Shayan Seva (ritual of putting the deity to rest) is performed. The deity is offered a light meal, water, and mantras of protection are chanted. The doors are then closed after seeking permission from the Lord himself.

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