Hanuman Jayanti 2026: Date, Chalisa & How to Observe
Festival guide · 2026
Hanuman Jayanti celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman — the divine monkey warrior, devoted servant of Lord Rama, and symbol of strength and bhakti. It falls on the full moon (Purnima) of Chaitra, typically in April.
Lord Hanuman is one of the most beloved deities in the Hindu pantheon — revered for extraordinary strength, unwavering devotion, and selfless service. Hanuman temples are found in nearly every town and village across India.
2026 Dates
| Date | Thursday, April 2, 2026 |
Dates are calculated automatically and may vary by ±1 day. Always confirm with your local religious authority.
Traditions & Observance
Recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa
The Hanuman Chalisa — 40 verses in praise of Hanuman composed by Tulsidas — is recited 11, 21, or 108 times on Hanuman Jayanti. Continuous recitation sessions are held in temples from before dawn. The Chalisa is the most widely recited Hindu devotional text after the Gayatri Mantra.
Sindoor Offerings
Sindoor (vermilion) has a unique connection to Hanuman — when Sita applied it for Rama's long life, Hanuman covered his entire body in sindoor out of devotion. For this reason, Hanuman's idols are typically red-orange, and devotees offer sindoor on Hanuman Jayanti as a mark of devotion.
Temple Celebrations
Hanuman temples across India hold grand celebrations — abhishek, decoration with flowers and lights, and prasad distribution. Large processions with Hanuman's image are taken through streets. The Jakhu Temple in Shimla, where Hanuman is said to have rested during his search for the Sanjivani herb, holds one of the grandest celebrations.
Fasting and Seva
Many devotees fast on Hanuman Jayanti, particularly those seeking strength and protection. Feeding the poor (anna-daan) is a common act of seva. Oil lamps are lit before Hanuman images, and offerings of tulsi leaves, bananas, and laddoos are made.
Other Years
Dates are based on the Hindu panchang and vary by tradition and region. Confirm with your local temple.