Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya: Spiritual Essence of India

Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya sits just a kilometer away from the bustling Ayodhya railway station lies a place of immense spiritual significance and historical importance—Hanuman Garhi. This sacred temple, also known as Siddha Peeth Shri  Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya. It is a holy shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Its roots trace back to the 10th century, making it one of the oldest and most cherished temples in Ayodhya.

A Divine History:

Legend has it that after the triumphant return of Lord Rama, Mata Sita, and Lord Hanuman to Ayodhya following the defeat of the demon king Ravana, Lord Hanuman chose to reside in a cave at Ayodhya’s heart to protect Ramkot—the very birthplace of Lord Rama. This act of unwavering devotion and guardianship marked the inception of Hanuman Garhi.

Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya

The Skanda Purana recounts that King Vikramaditya erected Hanuman Garhi alongside 360 other temples. Sadly, during the reign of Aurangzeb, the temple met a tragic fate as it was demolished and replaced with a mosque. Later, the Bairag community reclaimed the land after defeating Nawab Shujauddula, the King of Awadh, and they rebuilt a magnificent temple for Lord Hanuman. Despite several attempts to dismantle the temple by some, Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya stood tall and resilient.

Shri Hanuman Garhi Mandir Significance:

Ayodhya, the city of Lord Rama, naturally houses his greatest devotee, Lord Hanuman, at Hanuman Garhi. Situated on the banks of the serene Saryu River, this temple holds immense spiritual significance. Devotees often pen letters with special requests or permissions, offering them to Lord Hanuman.

Thousands of pilgrims flock to this hallowed site, seeking blessings and divine guidance before embarking on their journey to the revered Ram Mandir. One must first seek permission from Lord Hanuman before purifying their souls in the holy waters of the Saryu River.

Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya stands as Ayodhya’s tallest temple, a beacon of devotion visible from all directions.

Architectural Marvel:

The temple’s unique architectural design resembles a four-sided fort, with circular ramparts at each corner housing shrines dedicated to Lord Hanuman. To reach the sanctum sanctorum, one must ascend 76 graceful steps. The main shrine boasts three exquisite doors adorned with intricate silver carvings.

At the heart of the temple, a 6-inch idol of Lord Hanuman in his youthful, Bal Avatar sits on the lap of Mata Anjani. A silver Tulsi garland, bearing the name of Lord Rama, graces the deity. The sacred verses of the Hanuman Chalisa adorn the temple’s walls. An intriguing feature is the Victory Pillar, known as the Vijay Stambh, symbolizing Lord Hanuman’s triumphant return from Lanka after Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.

Festivals and Celebrations:

The atmosphere at  Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya  is particularly vibrant during festivals. Rama Navami, Diwali, and the grand celebration of Lord Hanuman’s birthday on Choti Diwali at midnight are cherished occasions. The people of Ayodhya unite in joy and enthusiasm to celebrate these festivals in the divine embrace of Hanuman Mandir.

Hanuman Garhi Ayodhya Timings:

The temple’s darshan timings vary with the changing seasons.

• During the summer, visitors can seek the divine blessings of Lord Hanuman from 07:30 am to 11:30 am and 04:30 pm to 09:30 pm.
• In the winter months, darshan timings are 09:00 am to 11:00 am and 04:00 pm to 09:00 pm.

Conclusion

Visiting  Hanuman Garhi is a journey not only through time and history but also into the depths of unwavering devotion and spirituality. It’s a place where faith transcends boundaries, and the divine presence of Lord Hanuman continues to protect and bless Ayodhya, just as it has for centuries.