Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Uttarpradesh

Address

Saket Nagar Colony, Sankata Mochan Leprosy,

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005

Moolavar

Hanuman, Rama

Introduction:

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a revered temple located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the divine devotee of Lord Rama. The temple was established by the renowned saint and poet Sri Goswami Tulsidas in the early 16th century, and it is believed to be situated on the very spot where Tulsidas had a divine vision of Hanuman. The deity here is named “Sankat Mochan,” meaning the “Reliever of Troubles,” and the temple stands along the banks of the Assi River, drawing countless devotees from all over India.

Puranic Significance:

The Sankat Mochan Temple holds deep religious and historical significance. It is believed that Goswami Tulsidas, the author of the Ramacharitamanasa, one of the most beloved retellings of Lord Rama’s saga, founded the temple after receiving a divine vision of Hanuman. Tulsidas wrote many of the verses of the Ramacharitramanas here, contributing to the temple’s sacred reputation. He clarified that his version of Lord Rama’s life was not merely an adaptation of Valmiki’s Ramayana, but rather one of the many divine avatars and lilas (acts) of Lord Rama in different Kalpas (cycles of time).

The temple promises that regular visitors will gain special favor from Lord Hanuman. Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered especially auspicious, and on these days, thousands of devotees visit the temple to seek blessings and protection from troubles.

In Vedic Astrology, Hanuman is known to protect devotees from the malefic effects of Shani (Saturn) and other astrological afflictions. Hanuman’s power over the planets is evident from the story where he swallowed the Sun, the lord of the planets, forcing the gods and celestial beings to plead for its release. Many astrologers believe that worshipping Hanuman can also neutralize the adverse effects of Mangal (Mars) and other planets, making this temple a key site for astrological remedies.

Special Features:

One of the temple’s special features is the offering of besan ke ladoo (a sweet made from chickpea flour), which is considered sacred Prasad and relished by devotees. The idol of Lord Hanuman is adorned with garlands of bright marigold flowers, symbolizing devotion and purity. Unique to this temple, Lord Hanuman is depicted facing his beloved Lord Rama, embodying his eternal, unwavering devotion.

Festivals:

The temple celebrates several festivals, the most important being Hanuman Jayanti, which marks the birth of Lord Hanuman. This festival attracts a large number of devotees who come to honor the mighty Hanuman with prayers, rituals, and processions. The temple’s bustling energy during this time is a testament to the deep love and devotion that people have for the deity.