Wondering why this Hanuman idol is black? This is Shree Kala Hanuman. Welcome to this unique temple. It is over 150 years old. Shree Kala Hanuman is no ordinary temple. It is a place of immense cultural and spiritual significance.
The term Kala Hanuman refers to a Black Hanuman Murti or Idol in a Hindu Temple. Black is the color associated with Shani. Devotees believe a black murti of Hanuman is more effective. It alleviates troubles linked to Shani’s bad positioning in one’s horoscope. People going through Sade Sati seek relief here. They offer prayers at Shree Kala Hanuman’s feet.
Do you know the story behind Hanuman’s connection to Shani? Legend says Hanuman rescued Shani from Ravana’s prison. Shani gave Hanuman a boon for rescuing him. Shani promised not to trouble Hanuman’s devotees. From that day, people worship Hanuman to escape from Shani’s malefic effects. Shree Kala Hanuman is mainly worshipped on Saturdays. Saturday or Shanivar is associated with Shani.
Most Hanuman murtis in North India are sindoor or red. The idol of Shree Kala Hanuman is unique. Here in this temple, Hanuman is black. This symbolizes his power to absorb negativity.
Hanuman is the incarnation of Lord Shiva. He embodies devotion, strength and knowledge. Hanuman was born to a cursed celestial fairy. Her name was Devi Anjana. She was cursed to be a monkey princess. The curse would only end when she gave birth to Lord Shiva’s incarnation. Anjana married Kesari. They had the divine child, Hanuman. Hanuman is also known as Anjaneya and Kesari Nandan. He is also called Vayuputra. Vayu Deva, the wind god, played a role in Hanuman’s birth.
Hanuman means disfigured jaw in Sanskrit. This name comes from an incident with the sun and Lord Indra. Hanuman tried to eat the sun, mistaking it for fruit. Indra struck him with his weapon. This dented Hanuman’s jaw.
Hanuman was cursed to forget his powers by a sage. The sage was irritated by Hanuman’s mischief. Hanuman could only remember his powers when someone reminded him.
Did you know that Hanuman and Rama once fought each other? Guru Vishwamitra ordered Rama to kill Yayati. Yayati sought refuge with Hanuman. Hanuman agreed to fight Rama. But Hanuman only chanted Rama’s name. No arrow could harm him. Vishwamitra was impressed. He ordered Rama to stop.
Hanuman saw Sita applying sindoor for Rama’s long life. He smeared sindoor all over his body. This was to extend Rama’s life even more. This shows his devotion to Lord Rama.
Shree Kala Hanuman stands as a beacon of hope. It is a reminder of devotion’s strength. It is a sanctuary for those seeking solace from life’s challenges. Remember Shree Kala Hanuman. Recall the tales of devotion and strength as you continue your journey. May the blessings of Shree Kala Hanuman be with you.