Hanuman Puja 2025: Date, time, significance and rituals on Chhoti Diwali

As Diwali approaches, beginning with Dhanteras on October 18, various regional rituals gain prominence. Among them is Hanuman Puja, observed on Chhoti Diwali, the day before the main festival. Particularly significant in Gujarat and other parts of India, this ritual coincides with Kali Chaudas, a day believed to be associated with heightened negative energies in the universe. Devotees worship Lord Hanuman on this night to seek protection from these forces, recognising his symbolic strength and courage.

Hanuman Puja timing and muhurat in 2025

According to Drik Panchang, Hanuman Puja falls on the Chaturdashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the Kartik month. In 2025, this period begins at 1:51 PM on October 19 and concludes at 3:44 PM on October 20. The most auspicious time for Hanuman Puja, or the muhurat, is between 11:41 PM and 12:31 AM on the night of October 19–20.

Cultural and mythological significance

Lord Hanuman is not only worshipped for his power to ward off evil but also due to a specific legend associated with Diwali. As per traditional beliefs, Diwali marks the return of Lord Ram to Ayodhya after defeating Ravan. Because of Hanuman’s unwavering devotion to Ram, it is believed that Ram granted him the blessing of being worshipped before himself. This belief underpins the tradition of Hanuman Puja on Chhoti Diwali.

Common rituals and offerings

In Hinduism, Lord Hanuman is considered immortal and ever-present for his devotees. Devotees perform Hanuman Puja on Chhoti Diwali to seek strength, protection, and success. Common practices include:

• Applying vermillion mixed with pure ghee to the idol, believed to resolve financial troubles.
  
  
• Lighting a mustard oil lamp and performing Hanuman Aarti to invoke divine protection.
  
  
• Offering betel leaves or garlands made of them, which are said to be especially pleasing to Hanuman.
  
  
• Presenting traditional offerings such as boondi laddus or a mixture of jaggery and gram.
  
  
• Offering Tulsi leaves or a Tulsi garland, believed to bestow wisdom and strength.
  
  

These rituals are followed with devotion by many, in the hope of inviting divine blessings and warding off negativity ahead of Diwali.