Why Lord Hanuman Is Worshipped Before Diwali: The Spiritual Significance Explained

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): As the festival of lights draws near, devotees across India are preparing not just for Diwali, but also for the auspicious observances that precede it. This year, the Kartik month’s Krishna Paksha Trayodashi tithi will last till 1:51 PM on October 19 (Sunday), after which Chaturdashi tithi will begin marking a rare and sacred combination of Kali Chaudas, Hanuman Puja, and Monthly Shivratri.

According to Drik Panchang, the Sun will be in Libra (Tula) and the Moon in Virgo (Kanya) on this day. The Abhijit Muhurat, considered highly auspicious for rituals, will occur between 11:43 AM and 12:29 PM. Based on the lunar calendar, Chaturdashi will be observed on October 19, beginning from 12:18 PM on October 18.

 Significance of Kali Chaudas

The festival of Kali Chaudas, also known as Chaturdashi Deepdaan, finds mention in the Garuda Purana. It is traditionally associated with lighting lamps for Yama (the God of Death) and is especially celebrated in Gujarat as part of Diwali festivities. This ritual takes place during Mahanishita Kaal, the midnight period when the Chaturdashi tithi prevails.

On this night, Maa Kali and Veer Vetal are worshipped, often in cremation grounds, to ward off dark energies. Devotees perform spiritual remedies to eliminate negative influences and attract prosperity.

A common ritual involves wrapping turmeric, 11 Gomti Chakras, a silver coin, and 11 cowries in a yellow cloth, chanting the mantra “Shreem Lakshmi Narayanaya Namah” 108 times, and keeping it in the safe to remove business obstacles. Offering cloves to Goddess Kali is believed to destroy negativity, while chickpea lentils and jaggery are offered as prasad. Reciting the Kali Beej Mantra —

“Om Kreem Kreem Kreem Hum Hum Hreem Hreem Dakshine Kalike Kreem Kreem Hum Hum Hreem Hreem Swaha” —

is said to annihilate enemies and invite the blessings of the goddess.

 Why Hanuman Puja Is Performed Before Diwali

Alongside Kali Chaudas, devotees also perform Hanuman Puja, which holds deep mythological significance. According to legend, Lord Rama blessed Lord Hanuman with the boon that his worship would always precede his own. Thus, the day before Diwali is dedicated to Hanuman Ji, symbolizing strength, protection, and fearlessness.

On this day, worshippers apply vermilion (sindoor) and jasmine oil to Hanuman’s idol, offer red flowers, and recite the Hanuman Chalisa. It is believed that this practice removes fear, drives away evil spirits, and increases inner strength and confidence. Devotees also offer laddoos or jaggery with roasted gram (gur-chana) as prasad.

In Ayodhya’s Hanumangarhi Temple, this day is celebrated as Hanuman Janmotsav, though in most parts of North India, Hanuman Jayanti is observed during Chaitra Purnima.

 Monthly Shivratri Significance

Masik Shivratri (Monthly Shivratri) is observed every Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi, marking the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. Scriptures say that Lord Shiva manifested in his linga form on this very day, and both Vishnu and Brahma worshipped him. Observing a Shivratri fast brings peace, fulfills difficult desires, and strengthens marital harmony.

When Shivratri falls on a Tuesday, it is considered especially auspicious.