Whispered tales of miracles and faith echo through the ages at Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir. We are standing before one of Delhi’s most revered temples. It is a place where history and devotion intertwine.
Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir is believed to be one of the five temples from the Mahabharata era. This makes it an incredibly ancient and significant site. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. He is a revered deity in the Hindu faith.
According to legend the temple’s foundation was laid by Maharaja Man Singh I of Amber. Later Maharaja Jai Singh II enhanced its beauty in 1724. This was around the same time he built the Jantar Mantar.
One unique feature of the Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir is the crescent moon on its spire. Instead of the typical Hindu symbol this Islamic symbol is present. It is said that Mughal Emperor gifted the crescent moon. It symbolizes Tulsidas’s miracle that showed his faith in Lord Hanuman. Some believe this is why Muslim invaders never destroyed the temple.
Tulsidas the writer of Ramcharitmanas visited Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir. It is said he composed Hanuman Chalisa during his visit to Delhi. The Mughal Emperor summoned him to perform a miracle. Tulsidas with Hanuman’s blessings impressed the emperor.
Let’s step closer to admire the architecture of the Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir. The entrance boasts an impressive dwar adorned with beautiful artwork. Inside the central mandap features paintings depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
The New Delhi Municipal Council maintains the temple with great care. You might even see Mehendi artists applying henna to women’s hands within the temple.
Festivals at Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir are vibrant and full of life. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with immense enthusiasm. The day of Purnima also brings a mega fair. Devotees wear colorful processions with Hanuman masks.
Notably Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir holds a Guinness World Record. It recognizes the continuous chanting of “Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram”. This 24-hour chanting has been ongoing since August 1 1964.
The Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir welcomes everyone with free entry. It opens from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM on most days. Tuesdays devotees are welcome throughout the day. Saturdays are best visited between 4:00 AM and 2:00 AM.
Reaching the Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir is easy. You can take the metro to Rajeev Chowk Metro Station or a local bus. Car rentals are also available.
As we conclude our visit let the spiritual ambiance of the Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir stay with you. The Pracheen Shri Hanuman Mandir stands not just as a temple but as a testament to enduring faith. It is a beacon of peace in the heart of Delhi.