As the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami approaches on April 17, 2024, devotees prepare to celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Ram with fervor and devotion. Alongside the worship of Lord Ram, another significant aspect of Ram Navami is the veneration of Lord Hanuman and the hoisting of his flag in homes. But why do devotees hoist Lord Hanuman’s flag on this special day? Let’s delve into the significance behind this tradition:
1. Devotion to Lord Hanuman:
- Lord Hanuman, revered as the greatest devotee of Lord Ram, holds a special place in Hindu mythology. Devotees worship him for his unwavering devotion and unparalleled strength, making him an integral part of Ram Navami celebrations.
2. Pleasing Lord Ram:
- According to beliefs, worshipping Lord Hanuman on the auspicious day of Ram Navami pleases Lord Ram himself. As Lord Hanuman is deeply devoted to Lord Ram, paying homage to him is believed to bring blessings and remove obstacles from one’s path.
3. Symbolism of Victory:
- The hoisting of Lord Hanuman’s flag is symbolic of victory and triumph. It represents the devotee’s dedication to overcoming challenges and obstacles with the strength and courage embodied by Lord Hanuman.
4. Rituals and Offerings:
- On the day of Ram Navami, devotees begin their day by waking up before sunrise, taking a purifying bath, and meditating. They then worship Lord Ram and other deities with offerings of flowers, sweets, fruits, and more.
- To honor Lord Hanuman, devotees wear red attire, offer him Panchamrit (a mixture of milk, yogurt, honey, sugar, and ghee), and recite sacred texts such as the Bajrang Baan or Sunderkand.
5. Auspicious Practices:
- Pandit Jagat Kumar Pandey, a renowned Ram Katha narrator, emphasizes the importance of observing auspicious practices on Ram Navami. He suggests performing aarti to express devotion to Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman, seeking their blessings for prosperity and well-being.
As devotees gear up to celebrate Ram Navami, the tradition of hoisting Lord Hanuman’s flag serves as a reminder of unwavering devotion, victory over obstacles, and the eternal bond between Lord Ram and his devoted disciple Hanuman. Through rituals, prayers, and offerings, devotees seek blessings for a blissful and prosperous life, guided by the divine grace of Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman.
