A crescent moon atop a spire. That’s the unusual sight that greets you at the Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir in Delhi. This isn’t your typical Hindu temple. The Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir boasts a unique feature a crescent moon instead of the usual Aum or sun symbol. This unusual detail is a fascinating piece of history. It’s a testament to the temple’s survival through centuries of changing rulers.
The Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir is an ancient Hindu temple. It’s claimed to be one of five temples dating back to the Mahabharata era in Delhi. Legend says that the Pandavas built these temples. This is one of five temples built to honor Hanuman and other deities. The temple’s self-manifested idol of Hanuman is a focal point of devotion. It depicts Bala Hanuman Hanuman as a child.
The story goes that during their exile the Pandavas’ brother Bhima encountered Hanuman. Disguised as an old monkey Hanuman tested Bhima’s arrogance. Bhima initially scoffed at the aged monkey. He was unable to lift Hanuman’s tail. Bhima realized the monkey was his brother Hanuman. He apologized for his behavior. Hanuman then revealed his true giant form. A form that spanned the distance he travelled to Lanka during the Ramayana.
Tulsidas a renowned poet and author of the Hanuman Chalisa is said to have visited the Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir. He performed a miracle at the request of the Mughal Emperor. This miracle secured the temple’s safety. The Emperor gifted the temple its iconic crescent moon finial. This finial is a symbol of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. The presence of the crescent moon is believed to have protected the Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir from destruction during times of conflict.
The Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir’s architecture is simple but magnificent. Its entrance features a dwar with impressive artwork. The main mandap’s ceiling is adorned with Ramayana paintings. The temple’s height stands at a reported 108 feet. The New Delhi Municipal Corporation has recently expanded the temple complex. They have added shrines to Shiva Parvati Durga Lakshmi Narayan and Ganesha. A shrine to Santoshi Mata the wish-fulfilling goddess is also located in an annex.
Devotees gather at the Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir particularly on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Hanuman Jayanti is a major celebration. Devotees participate in colorful processions wearing Hanuman masks and carrying idols. The Iccha Poornee Pracheen Hanuman Mandir is a significant religious center. It is a popular place for Mehndi application. This temple is a testament to the enduring faith in Lord Hanuman. It is a must visit when in Delhi.