Chaitra Pournima (full moon) is on April 1st this year, followed by Hanuman Jayanti on April 2nd. This raises the question why the date discrepancy, given the tradition of celebrating Hanuman Jayanti on Chaitra Pournima according to the Tithi (lunar day)? Also, is "Jayanti" or "Janmotsav" the more accurate term for this festival? This year, Chaitra Shuddha Pournima occurs from April 1st at 7:06 AM to April 2nd at 7:41 AM.
As the Pournima Tithi prevails at sunrise on April 2nd, Hanuman Janmotsav (or Jayanti) will be celebrated that morning at 6:40 AM, according to Hindu tradition. For years, the Chaitra Pournima celebration has been known as "Hanuman Jayanti." While debates over semantics can detract from the festival's spirit, almanac expert Mohan Date has weighed in on the "Jayanti" versus "Janmotsav" discussion, effectively resolving the controversy. Let's examine his insight to clarify any confusion and fully embrace the festival's true purpose.
Mohan Date, the compiler of the Date Panchang, states:
This year's Hanuman Jayanti features the auspicious combination of Dhruva Yoga and Hasta Nakshatra. Dhruva Yoga lasts from sunrise until 2:20 PM, followed by Vyaghata Yoga. Hasta Nakshatra is in effect until 5:38 PM, after which Chitra Nakshatra begins.
Hanuman Jayanti Puja Rituals
On Hanuman Jayanti, wake up early, bathe, and dress in red. Take a Sankalp (pledge) to fast and worship. For the Puja, place a Lord Hanuman idol or image on a Chowki (wooden pedestal) covered with red or white cloth. Light a ghee lamp and Agarbatti (incense sticks). Offer Sindoor (red vermilion), sandalwood paste, and jasmine oil to Lord Hanuman. It is customary to offer a Chola (sacred vestment) to Bajrangbali. Offer Panchamrit (a sacred concoction of five ingredients) and Laddoos as Prasad (sacred food offering). Chant sacred mantras and perform His Aarti (ritual waving of lamps).