Hanuman Jayanti 2026: April 1 or 2, here is the right date, puja time and rituals
New Delhi: Devotees across India are preparing to celebrate Hanuman Jayanti 2026 with great devotion and enthusiasm, but confusion over whether the festival falls on April 1 or April 2 has left many seeking clarity.
According to the Hindu lunar calendar, Hanuman Jayanti will be observed on April 2, 2026, as the Purnima Tithi of the Chaitra month plays a decisive role in determining the date.
As per the Panchang, the Purnima Tithi begins at 07.06 am on April 1 and ends at 07.41 am on April 2.
Since the Udaya Tithi, or the full moon phase prevailing at sunrise, is considered auspicious for festival observance, Hanuman Jayanti will be celebrated on April 2.
Shubh muhurat and puja timings
- Purnima Tithi begins: 07.06 am, April 1, 2026
- Purnima Tithi ends: 07.41 am, April 2, 2026
- Hanuman Jayanti date: April 2, 2026 (based on Udaya Tithi)
- Auspicious puja time: 06.10 am to 07.44 am (early morning)
- Best time for rituals: During sunrise hours on April 2
- Recommended practices during muhurat: Chanting Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand path, offering sindoor and jasmine oil
Devotees begin the day by taking a holy bath and offering prayers to Lord Hanuman. Many devotees observe a fast on this day, seeking strength, courage, and protection from evil forces.
Temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman are decorated with flowers and lights, and special prayers and bhajans are organised throughout the day.
Significance and celebrations across India
Hanuman Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Ram. He symbolises strength, courage, loyalty, and selfless service.
Believed to be the son of Anjana and Kesari, and also known as Pawan Putra, Lord Hanuman is considered a chiranjeevi, or immortal being.
Hindu scriptures describe him as an incarnation of Lord Shiva and credit him with possessing extraordinary powers, including the Ashta Siddhi and Nav Nidhi.
The day holds immense spiritual significance, especially for devotees seeking relief from troubles and obstacles. Chanting Hanuman Chalisa and participating in Sundarkand recitations are considered especially powerful on this occasion.
Across the country, from North India to the South, celebrations are marked by grand processions, temple visits, and community prayers. Devotees offer chola (a special cloth offering), coconuts, and meetha paan, while priests perform elaborate aartis.
Hanuman Jayanti is not just a festival but a reminder of devotion, discipline, and inner strength, values that Lord Hanuman embodies and inspires millions to follow.