Drawn by faith for centuries lets pause before the Chota Hanuman Mandir. This ancient temple in Delhi is not just a place of worship. It is a testament to history and devotion.
The Chota Hanuman Mandir is claimed to be one of the five temples from the Mahabharata era in Delhi. Legend says the Pandavas built it after their victory in the Kurukshetra war. This makes it a site of immense historical significance.
The temple’s origins are linked to Maharaja Man Singh I of Amber. He is said to have built it during Emperor Akbar’s reign. Maharaja Jai Singh rebuilt it in 1724 around the same time as the Jantar Mantar. Over the years, improvements have made it a central religious spot.
Look up at the spire. Notice the unusual crescent moon instead of the typical Hindu Aum or Sun symbol. Legend says that when Tulsidas visited Delhi he was summoned by the Mughal Emperor. Asked to perform a miracle Tulsidas did so with Lord Hanuman’s blessings. The Emperor then gifted the temple the crescent moon finial. It is also believed this symbol protected the temple from destruction by Muslim rulers.
The idol here is known as Sri Hanuman Ji Maharaj. It depicts Bala Hanuman that is Hanuman as a child. The idol faces south. Devotees can see only one eye. The idol holds a Gada or mace in its left hand. Its right hand crosses the chest showing respect to Rama Lakshmana and Sita.
Enter through the silver-plated doors. They show scenes from the Ramayana. Inside paintings of Hanuman adorn the walls in all directions. Below each painting verses from Tulsidas’s Sundar Kand are inscribed on marble tablets. The temple is 108 feet tall. Its main hall shows scenes from the Ramayana.
An important tradition here is the continuous chanting of the mantra Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram. This has been going on since August 1 1964. It is even recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Tuesday and Saturday are special days. Devotees gather here in large numbers to worship. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with grand processions. People wear Hanuman masks and carry idols of Hanuman.
Take in the atmosphere of the Chota Hanuman Mandir. It stands as a symbol of faith history and architectural uniqueness in the heart of Delhi. Its story continues to evolve with each prayer and each passing year.