Hanuman Ashtami : The Day of Victory, Protection & Divine Strength
Hanuman Ashtami is celebrated to honor Lord Hanuman’s divine victory over Ahiravana and his return from Patal Lok. The day holds deep spiritual and astrological importance, especially in Ujjain. Devotees perform abhishekam, aarti, and special rituals to seek strength, protection, and freedom from planetary troubles.
On this sacred day, the worship of Bajrangbali grants freedom from the adverse effects of planets:
According to belief, during the Treta Yuga, Hanumanji entered Patal Lok and killed Ahiravana to rescue Lord Rama and Lakshmana. Therefore, this day is celebrated as a festival of victory. Another belief states that after returning from Patal Lok, Hanumanji rested in Ujjain, which is considered the navel center of the Earth. Coincidentally, that day was Paush Krishna Ashtami.
On December 12, Hanuman Ashtami will be celebrated in temples across the country. In Hanuman temples, the day will begin with the ceremonial abhishekam of Hanumanji Maharaj. In the evening, special Maha Aarti and community feasts will be organized. Some temples will also conduct processions.
Jyotishacharya Pt. Harihar Pandya explained that Hanuman Ashtami is observed on the Ashtami tithi of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Paush. Several legends are associated with this day.
One belief says that Hanumanji defeated Ahiravana in Patal Lok and freed Lord Rama and Lakshmana, making this day a celebration of victory. Another belief describes that after returning from Patal Lok, Hanumanji rested in Ujjain—the Earth’s energy center—and that day happened to be Paush Krishna Ashtami. Therefore, Hanuman Ashtami is celebrated with special joy and devotion in Ujjain. Worshipping Hanumanji on this day is believed to fulfill all wishes of devotees.
In Ujjain, the darshan of Bhajanananda Hanumanji, enshrined at Shri Parshuram Temple (Nanakhheda, Chanakyapuri), holds special importance on Hanuman Ashtami. Every year, a large number of devotees visit here for darshan and worship, and this year too, a grand celebration will take place.
Worship for Favorable Saturn and Mars :
If Saturn, Mars, Rahu, or other planets are positioned unfavorably in one’s horoscope, the person should worship Hanumanji for planetary relief.
Those experiencing Shani Sade Sati or Dhaiyya should offer oil and sindoor to Hanumanji on Hanuman Ashtami and recite the Hanuman Chalisa and Hanuman Ashtak to gain relief from troubles.
Visiting Hanuman temples and lighting a lamp every Saturday and Tuesday also helps remove obstacles and hardships.
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