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Positioned on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh in north India, the city of Varanasi is one of the most sacred cities of India. Owing to its rich cultural heritage and the presence of many temples, ghats and shrines, many religious festivals and auspicious events are celebrated in Varanasi throughout the year. The Hanuman Jayanti in Varanasi is one such significant festival. This is one of the notable festivals of the Hindus which is celebrated in Varanasi with bright ceremonial rites and rituals. Hanuman Jayanti in Varanasi is observed in the honor of the birth of the great Lord Hanuman who represents the inner energy or the vigor of the soul, and the spiritual strength. In ancient Hindu mythology, Hanuman was an ardent follower of Lord Rama. He helped and accompanied Rama to Lanka to rescue Sita (Lord Rama’s wife) from the clutches of Ravana. He was also prominently instrumental in defeating Ravana’s troops and destroying his kingdom, thereby emerging victorious from the great battle in Lanka. At present, during Hanuman Jayanti in Varanasi Lord Hanuman is worshipped due to His unshakeable love and devotion to Lord Rama and also to Sita. He is one of the most popular Gods among the Hindus and His worship is also done on an extensive scale with lots of pomp and show. Hanuman Jyanti is celebrated on Chaitra Shukla Purnima or full-moon day between the months of March and April. This auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayanti in Varanasi is celebrated with great ostentation and elaborate arrangements. A lavish feast also marks this particular festival. The festival lasts for five consecutive days. People throng the Sankat Mochan Temple in Varanasi where the main celebration takes place. The devotees smear their forehead with sindoor tilak taken from the statues of Hanuman. This sindoor or vermilion is considered to be the Lord’s blessings and thus is believed to be sacred. The offerings to Lord Hanuman mainly include the typical Indian sweets called laddoos which are said to be the favorites of the Lord. After the worship is over, they are distributed among the devotees and the poor people. The Hanuman Jayanti in Varanasi is accompanied with and followed by many cultural functions and musical shows. Many well-known artists and performers are flown down to the city to take part in such programmes.
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