Hanuman Jayanti was celebrated at the Sri Prabhu Hanuman Mandir on Thursday last week, being Lord Hanuman’s birthday.
Lord Hanuman was born on the Chaitra Shukla Purnima (full moon day in the Hindu calendar month of Chaitra). He is also called by the names Maruti, Pavanputra, Bajrangbali and Mahavira.
Lord Hanuman is one of the most revered gods of India. He is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Lord Hanuman is venerated as the greatest disciple of Lord Sri Ram. He is seen as the embodiment of devotion and loyalty, and is one of the rare Hindu gods who has taken a vow of celibacy.
He was born to (Wind-God) Kesari and Anjani. Hanuman became a legend mainly for his unflinching devotion and loyalty to Paramatma Lord Ram. He was an ideal karma yogi for his fearless, selfless service, humility and devotion to Lord Ram. Lord Hanuman is the only deity that cannot be troubled by negative energies.
Hanuman Jayanti is an important festival for Hindus, as Hanuman is the symbol of strength and energy. Hanuman is said to be able to assume any form at will, wield rocks, move mountains, dart through the air, seize the clouds and rival Garuda in swiftness of flight. He is worshipped in folk tradition as a deity with magical powers and the ability to conquer evil spirits.
Also known as an avatara of Lord Rama, he is considered the God of Power (Maruti).
On Hanuman Jayanti, people fast, meditate on him and his Lord Rama, practice charity, read the Hanuman Chalisa, spend the day repeating his glories and adventures, and feel blessed. Hanuman Jayanti is considered very auspicious for wrestlers and bodybuilders. On this day, they fast from morning till night. Bodybuilding and wrestling competitions are organised in Indian villages. They assemble at the wrestling field after paying obeisance to Lord Hanuman. They begin their fight after both the wrestlers shout “Jai Hanuman”. Attractive cash prizes are awarded to the winner.
Source: http://ladysmithgazette.co.za/59671/hindus-celebrate-hanuman-jayanti/