April 2 marks Hanuman Jayanti, celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman. On this day, devotees offer oil, rui (Calotropis leaves), and vermilion (sindoor) to the deity, along with panjiri as prasad. The birth of Hanuman is commemorated at sunrise, around 6:40 am, when rituals are performed by placing the idol in a cradle and singing devotional hymns, followed by an aarti to conclude the celebration. Many places witness a festive atmosphere with bhajans and kirtans. Devotees visiting temples are encouraged to carry three special offerings—rui, oil, and sindoor—and understand their significance.
These three items are especially dear to Lord Hanuman and are also offered on Saturdays, considered his sacred day. Oil is applied to Hanuman’s idol every Saturday. According to legend, when Lakshman was rendered unconscious by Indrajit’s powerful weapon, Hanuman flew to bring the Sanjeevani herb from the Dronagiri mountain. During his journey, Bharat mistakenly shot him with an arrow. Upon realizing the truth, Bharat treated Hanuman’s wounds with oil and sindoor, helping him recover instantly and continue his mission. This is believed to be the origin of offering oil to Hanuman.
Rui leaves also hold significance. It is believed that Hanuman’s mother, Anjani, was a devoted follower of Lord Ganesha. To bless her son with strength, wisdom, and the power to remove obstacles, she would adorn him with a garland made of rui (mandar) leaves. In memory of his mother, Hanuman is said to have continued wearing such garlands. As he is also considered the eleventh Rudra, devotees offer garlands of eleven leaves and perform eleven circumambulations.
Sindoor (vermilion) is associated with two popular legends. One story recounts Bharat applying oil and sindoor to heal Hanuman’s injuries. Another tells of Hanuman seeing Sita applying sindoor on her forehead and asking her the reason. She replied that it ensured the long life of Lord Rama. Out of devotion, Hanuman began applying sindoor all over his body to protect his lord. Another tale describes Hanuman taking the form of a red देवी to rescue Rama and Lakshman from Ahiravan and Mahiravan in the underworld. This tradition continues as devotees apply sindoor to Hanuman’s idol in remembrance.