You must have visited Hanuman temples, but have you ever heard about a temple that is purely dedicated to Hanuman and where the idol depicts him in a sleeping posture? Shri Hanuman Mandir Jam Sawli, Madhya Pradesh, is a unique temple. It is among the most famous destinations for Hindus, particularly those in the Chhindwara and Nagpure regions. Furthermore, the significance of the temple goes far beyond a usual idol. Hanuman, the monkey god, is a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana. As per the devotees, it is believed that praying at this temple brings good fortune and even fulfilment of wishes. It is important to note that Tuesdays and Saturdays are the busiest days, so you should plan your visit accordingly.
All You Need To Know About Shri Hanuman Mandir Jam Sawli
Image Credit: Ravichatap1990 for wikimedia commons
Most Hanuman temples depict the idol in a standing posture, but here, Lord Hanuman lies in a unique reclining position. The peculiarity, coupled with the temple’s reputation for fulfilling wishes, has propelled it to fame. The main attraction of the temple is undoubtedly the idol of Hanuman, which is carved from a black stone. Moreover, the idol stretches on an impressive 8-10 feet, hence depicting a restful sleeping pose. Furthermore, there’s a natural spring of water that continuously flows from the idol’s navel. As per the devotees, it is believed that the water is a special blessing offered to them as prasadam.
Many devotees visit Jam Sawli temple to seek the blessings of Hanuman, to achieve success, to have good health, and to overcome obstacles. Additionally, the temple is most crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays, as during these days, the temple often sees special puja aartis. Not just this, but there are also some specific traditions that the temple follows. Men are allowed closer darshan of the idol, whereas the women traditionally see it from a designated area. However, this practice doesn’t hold any negative connotation but is simply a part of the temple’s customs.
Must read: 40 Tourist Places In Madhya Pradesh That You Should Be Visiting In 2024
Must Read: Tourist Places In Madhya Pradesh
Major Festivals And Events Celebrated At The Temple
Image Credit: Gr8patron01 for wikimedia commons
There are some general events and festivals celebrated at the temple. Here’s the likely scenario:
Hanuman Jayanti
Hanuman Jayanti, a popular festival in the history of Hinduism, celebrates the birth of Hanuman. This day is celebrated with great devotion throughout India. Hanuman Jayanti typically falls in March or April, and during this festival, devotees indulge in performing special pujas and aartis and reciting Hanuman Chalisa. Moreover, sweets and flowers are offered to the deity during this festival.
Tuesdays and Saturdays
Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered auspicious days for worshipping Hanuman. During these two days of the week, the temple witnesses a larger crowd of devotees who are willing to participate in the special pujas and aartis being held in the temple. Please note that the temple remains open throughout the day on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Ramayana Recitation
Knowing the temple’s association with the Ramayana, there might be some events where the priests recite a portion of the epic Ramayana. Events like these enable the devotees to immerse themselves in the tales of Hanuman’s feats and his unwavering devotion towards Lord Rama.
Daily Prayers And Offerings At The Temple
Image Credit: Adarsh Upadhyay for wikimedia commons
Here’s a glimpse of the daily prayers and offerings at the Shri Hanuman Mandir Jamsavli temple:
Morning Aarti: Like most Hindu temples, Shri Hanuman Mandir Jam Sawli temple also has a Mangala aarti, which is known to be an auspicious morning prayer performed at sunrise. Devotees gather in large numbers at the temple complex’s main sanctum to recite hymns and bhajans and even to chant the mantras. Moreover, they even bring offerings in the form of fruits, sweets, and flowers to offer to Hanuman.
Continuous Archana: “Archana” typically refers to continuous prayers and mantras dedicated to the deity. These mantras can include the Hanuman Moola Mantra, Hanuman Gayatri Mantra, Manojavam Marutatulyavegam Mantra, Anjaneya Mantra, Hanuman Beeja Mantra, and many more. The temple also has priests who perform Archana throughout the day. Devotees can even request them to perform a puja.
Suggested read: These 10 Places To Visit In Madhya Pradesh In May Will Fulfill All Your Travel Dreams!
Individual Pujas: Devotees can visit the temple to offer their own pujas and prayer rituals. This may involve cleaning the utensils in the langar area, lighting the lamps, offering flowers and sweets, and even reciting personal prayers or Hanuman Chalisa at the temple.
Prasad Distribution: The temple priests often distribute the prasad to the devotees after the special pujas and aartis are held. The prasadam could be in any form: fruits, flowers, the deity’s ornaments, or even the holy water emanating from the idol’s navel.
Evening Aarti: Just like the morning aarti or mangala aarti, there’s a special evening aarti or Sandhya Aarti held at the temple at sunset. This is another opportunity for the deities to offer their prayers at the temple and gather to recite the holy chants in the name of Hanuman.
Suggested Read: Tourist Places Near Chhindwara
Nearby Attractions To Visit Around Shri Hanuman Mandir Jam Sawli Temple
Well, the immediate vicinity of the temple isn’t overflowing with a wide range of tourist spots, but nearby, there are located some of the most interesting options which you can plan to visit:
1. Shri Badal Bhoi State Tribal Museum Chhindwara
Image Credit: NAZAARAEY for wikimedia commons
Located a short walk from the temple is the Shri Badal Bhoi State Tribal Museum, which offers a glimpse into the tribal culture and heritage of Madhya Pradesh. Although this museum does not have a direct link to the temple, it can help you understand the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
Location: Situated 63 kilometres from the temple
Timings: From 9 AM to 6 PM
2. Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Birth Place Shrine
Image Credit: NAZAARAEY for wikimedia commons
Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi Birth Place Shrine, dedicated to the founder of Sahaja Yoga, is significant for spiritual practice followers. Moreover, this temple is located a short distance from the temple and even caters to specific spiritual inclinations.
Location: Situated 60 kilometres from the temple
Timings: From 9 AM to 6 PM
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Madhya Pradesh
Practical Tips To Keep In Mind
- When you visit the temple, opt for modest clothing which covers your shoulders and knees.
- This is a sign of respect you must maintain for the temple’s sanctity.
- Moreover, you have to remove your shoes before entering the temple complex.
- This is a common practice in all the Hindu temples to maintain cleanliness and respect towards the deity.
- Furthermore, do not make loud noises inside the temple, as this may disrupt the devotees’ mantra chantings.
- Additionally, the photography policies vary from temple to temple.
- It would be best to inquire about the temple’s photography policies before clicking.
- Even if you wish to donate at the temple, you can do so at the designated donation box located on the premises.
Further Read: Maeklong Railway Market
Shri Hanuman Mandir Jam Sawli temple offers a unique experience for the devotees and all the tourists. From the depiction of the reclining idol of Hanuman to the holy water emanating from his navel, this temple is steeped in faith and mystery. Whether you seek spiritual solace or are willing to simply immerse yourself in a different way of life, this temple in Madhya Pradesh has something different to offer its devotees. So, book a trip to Madhya Pradesh, pack your bags and embark on this pilgrimage to this unique temple.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: ShyamOnline for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Shri Hanuman Mandir Jam Sawli
What is the significance of the reclining idol of Hanuman?
The reclining posture of the idol at the Shri Hanuman Mandir is unique. Unlike most depictions of Hanuman in a standing posture, the idol here depicts him in a restful sleeping pose. This adds to the temple's mystique and is believed to symbolize Hanuman's unwavering dedication and selfless service, even in moments of rest. Is there a specific dress code for visiting the temple?
Yes, opting for modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is considered respectful attire for entering the temple premises. This is a common practice in Hindu temples to maintain sanctity. What are the major festivals celebrated at the temple?
While information specific to the temple is limited, major Hindu festivals like Hanuman Jayanti (celebrating Hanuman's birth) and Vijayadashami (victory of good over evil) are likely observed with special pujas and ceremonies. Tuesdays and Saturdays are also considered auspicious days for worshipping Hanuman and might see a larger number of devotees. Can I take pictures inside the temple?
Photography policies can vary depending on the temple. It's always best to inquire with the temple authorities or a priest before taking any pictures inside the temple to ensure you respect the temple's sanctity. How do I get to the temple?
The temple is located in Jam Sawli village, around 60 kilometres from both Nagpur and Chhindwara. Public transport options in Jam Sawli might be limited. Consider hiring a car or taxi from either city for a comfortable commute. You can also inquire about local transportation options available from Jam Sawli itself.
People Also Read:
6 Exotic Hill Stations In Madhya Pradesh Which Will Definitely Make You Escape The Gloomy Weekend 7 Things To Do In Mandu That Will Turn You Into A Historian 20 Places To Visit In Mandu In 2024 That Will Turn The Chapters Of History For You
With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!
