Hanuman was an ardent devotee of
Rama, and is worshipped for his unflinching devotion to
the god. From the early morning, devotees flock Hanuman
temples to worship the monkey god.
Hanuman Jayanti is an
important festival. Hanuman is the symbol of strength
and energy. Hanuman is said to be able to assume any
form at will, wield rocks, move mountains, dart through
the air, seize the clouds and rival Vishnu's bird,
Garuda in swiftness off light. He is worshipped in folk
tradition as a deity with magical powers and
the ability to conquer evil spirits.
The devotees will
visit temples and apply tilak of sindhoor to their
foreheads from the Hanumans body as this is considered
to be good luck.
According to the legend Sita was applying
sindhoor to her head, Hanumans Ji questioned why and
replied that this would ensure a long life for her
husband. Hanuman then smeared his entire body with
sindhoor, in an effort to ensure Roma’s
immortality.
