Imagine Hanuman himself chose this spot. This is Pracheen Hanuman Mandir. It stands as one of Delhi’s most historic temples.
Welcome to the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir in Connaught Place. This ancient shrine is believed to date back to the Mahabharata era. The Pandavas visited this very spot during their exile. They conducted a puja here. Devotees believe this.
The Pracheen Hanuman Mandir is one of five ancient temples in Delhi. Others include Bhairon Mandir, Kalkaji Temple, Yogmaya Temple and Marghat Hanuman Temple.
Construction began in 1365 AD. Raja Man Singh discovered a Hanuman idol during land clearing. He started building the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir. The temple features traditional architecture. There are detailed carvings and an impressive shikhara. Tuesdays and Saturdays are especially busy. These days are auspicious for worshipping Lord Hanuman.
The main murti of Hanuman is a swayambhu. This means it emerged on its own. The murti faces south. This distinguishes it from others that typically face east. Visitors will find Hanuman in the child form at this Pracheen Hanuman Mandir.
Raja Man Singh of Jaipur is believed to have originally built the Pracheen Hanuman Mandir. The structure is topped by a steeple. It has gold paintings and glasswork on the ceiling. The floor is laid with white and black marble slabs. The Singasan is surrounded by a pierced marble balustrade.
The Pracheen Hanuman Mandir underwent a grand renovation in the 1980s. The entrance has wide white marble steps. They lead to silver-sheathed doors. Panels depict scenes from the Ramayana. Inside are frescoes. They depict events from Hanuman’s life. He lifted a mountain. He brought Sanjeevani Booti. He set Lanka on fire.
Tulsidas visited this Pracheen Hanuman Mandir. He performed a miracle with Hanuman’s blessings. The Mughal ruler adorned the spire with an Islamic crescent-moon finial. This replaced the usual ornamental water pot. This unique feature distinguishes the shrine.
The Pracheen Hanuman Mandir attracts many visitors. These include ordinary workers and political figures.
The optimal time to visit Pracheen Hanuman Mandir is before dawn. During the aarti, the usual hustle subsides. Only the sounds of bells and hymns remain.
The deity holds a gada in his left hand. His right hand rests on his midsection. This Pracheen Hanuman Mandir has stood as a symbol of Delhi for centuries. As you enter, notice the magnificent Dwar. It is embellished with impressive artwork. The entire temple exudes devotion and serenity. Look up at the central mandap. You can see paintings from the Ramayana.
The chanting of ‘Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Ram’ began on August 1, 1964. It earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records.
Millions visit Pracheen Hanuman Mandir every year. They celebrate festivals. Hanuman Jayanti and Shri Ramanavmi are major celebrations. Diwali and MahaShivratri are also celebrated.
The Pracheen Hanuman Mandir stands as a testament to faith. It reflects Delhi’s rich history. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty. Absorb its spiritual energy. Remember the stories it holds within its walls.