Ashta Siddhi Hanuman: The Divine Warrior of Faith - Where devotion transforms into divine strength.
In the vast ocean of Sanatana Dharma, one deity shines forth as the epitome of unshakable devotion, unwavering strength, and eternal service to Dharma — Sri Hanuman, the beloved son of Vayu. Revered across the length and breadth of India, Hanuman is more than a mere divine figure; He is a living embodiment of energy, strength, intellect, and victory over adversity. Particularly venerated on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and during powerful lunar phases like Amavasya, Hanuman's presence is invoked for protection against evils, inner strength, and spiritual upliftment.
But what makes Ashta Siddhi Hanuman so unique? What is the significance behind offering Urad Dal, Vadamala, or Sindoor? Why are certain Nakshatras like Moola and Poorvabhadra considered sacred for His worship? Let us dive deeper into the mystic layers of Hanuman worship and how these ancient practices continue to thrive in both northern and southern parts of Bharat.
Ashta Siddhi Hanuman – The Supreme Yogi of Eight Mystic Powers
The term Ashta Siddhi Hanuman refers to the Eight Supernatural Perfections (Ashta Siddhis) granted to Hanuman by various Devas and Sages. These eight Siddhis are:
Anima – Ability to Become Infinitely Small
Anima Siddhi grants the ability to shrink one’s physical form to an infinitely small size, even smaller than the tiniest particle. For Hanuman, this was more than a physical transformation—it was a way to bypass seemingly impossible barriers to accomplish his mission. The best example is when Hanuman entered Lanka in search of Sita. He reduced his size to that of a tiny creature to avoid detection by the mighty demon guards. In yogic philosophy, Anima is symbolic of humility and the dissolution of ego, and Hanuman exemplifies this by reducing himself in service to Rama’s cause without pride in his powers.
Mahima – Ability to Expand Infinitely
Mahima Siddhi is the power to increase one’s size to cosmic proportions. Hanuman demonstrated this magnificently when he leapt across the ocean to reach Lanka. By expanding his body, he not only covered vast distances but also instilled awe and fear in his enemies. In spiritual terms, Mahima represents the expansion of consciousness to embrace all creation. Hanuman’s ability to manifest this Siddhi shows his oneness with the infinite power of the Divine, enabling him to face colossal challenges with unwavering confidence and to serve as a visible manifestation of divine strength in times of need.
Garima – Power to Become Infinitely Heavy
Garima Siddhi allows the possessor to become so heavy that no force can move them. Hanuman employed this power when he allowed himself to be bound by the demons in Lanka after meeting Sita. The mighty Rakshasas could not budge him when he chose to invoke this Siddhi. On another occasion, during the battle, he used Garima to crush the enemies beneath his unmovable weight. Symbolically, Garima represents steadfastness and the immovable will in the face of adversity. Hanuman’s heavy form is also a metaphor for the weight of Dharma, which remains unshaken by the turbulence of unrighteousness.
Laghima – Power to Become Weightless
Laghima Siddhi is the exact opposite of Garima—it allows one to become as light as a feather, or even lighter than air. Hanuman displayed this power while soaring through the skies, effortlessly covering great distances, and maneuvering at incredible speed. Laghima also symbolizes the shedding of worldly burdens, attachments, and doubts. For Hanuman, becoming weightless meant being free of all material limitations, moving swiftly to fulfill Rama’s will. His ability to cross the ocean and ascend to celestial realms at will illustrates how his devotion made him as light as the wind itself, his very element as the son of Vayu.
Prapti – Ability to Obtain Anything Anywhere
Prapti Siddhi allows its master to acquire any object, knowledge, or resource from any place, regardless of distance or difficulty. Hanuman utilized this Siddhi when he brought the Sanjeevani herb from the distant Himalayas to save Lakshmana’s life. This Siddhi also symbolizes mastery over space and time, allowing instantaneous access to what is needed for a righteous purpose. For a devotee like Hanuman, Prapti was never used for selfish gain; instead, it became a divine tool for protecting Dharma and serving others. It represents the principle that the universe aligns itself to supply what is required to those who serve with pure devotion.
Prakamya – Fulfillment of Desires
Prakamya Siddhi is the power to make any righteous desire come true. Hanuman’s every act was guided by the singular desire to serve Lord Rama and ensure the triumph of righteousness. Whether it was finding Sita, burning down Lanka to weaken the enemy, or safeguarding Rama’s devotees, Hanuman’s will was perfectly aligned with divine will. In spiritual terms, Prakamya represents harmony between personal intention and cosmic law, ensuring that desires manifest effortlessly when they are selfless and pure. Hanuman’s life is a testament to how unshakable faith and righteous intent lead to inevitable fulfillment.
Ishatva – Lordship Over Creation
Ishatva Siddhi confers supreme authority and lordship over all aspects of creation. It is the dominion of a being who is united with the cosmic order. Hanuman’s Ishatva is not one of ego-driven rulership, but of divine stewardship—protecting devotees, maintaining balance, and guiding seekers. This power signifies the complete mastery of the elements, the mind, and the laws of nature. For Hanuman, Ishitva meant that the forces of creation responded to his command because he was an instrument of Dharma, wielding this lordship only to uphold righteousness and never for selfish gain.
Vashitva – Power to Control All Beings
Vashitva Siddhi grants mastery over the minds, hearts, and actions of others. Hanuman, through his unmatched wisdom and compassion, could influence and inspire anyone—from vanaras and humans to even mighty Rakshasas—to act in the cause of righteousness. This control is not born of coercion but of love, virtue, and spiritual magnetism. In the Ramayana, even the fierce enemies of Rama were awed by Hanuman’s nobility. Spiritually, Vashitva represents the power to guide others toward truth, using compassion as the ultimate means of influence.
These divine Siddhis were bestowed upon Hanuman by Mother Sita Herself when He returned from Lanka after fulfilling his mission of finding her. With these powers, Hanuman was no longer just a servant of Rama; He became the protector of seekers, destroyer of evil, and custodian of Dharma for all ages.
Why is Hanuman Worshipped on Tuesdays and Saturdays?
In Vedic astrology, Tuesday (Mangalvar) and Saturday (Shanivar) hold specific significance with respect to Hanuman.
- Tuesday is ruled by Lord Mangal (Mars), a planet of energy, courage, and aggression. Lord Hanuman, being the deity who subdues negative Mars effects, is worshipped to channel that raw energy into positive action. People with Mangala Dosha, delay in marriage, or physical ailments often turn to Hanuman for remedy.
- Saturday is ruled by Lord Shani (Saturn) — the planet of karma and justice. According to legends, Shani himself once promised Hanuman that those who worshipped Him on Saturdays would be shielded from Saturn’s harsh effects. Hanuman is thus the only deity capable of pacifying the powerful graha Shani.
- Devotees observe fasts, chant the Hanuman Chalisa, offer oil lamps, and perform tailabhishekam (oil abhisheka) on these days to seek divine intervention in their karmic challenges.
- Sacred Nakshatras: Moola & Poorvabhadra – Celestial Times for Hanuman’s Grace
Nakshatra And Hanuman Worship
Certain Nakshatras (Star Constellation) are seen as spiritually aligned with Hanuman's energy. Among them, Moola Nakshatra and Poorva Bhadrapad Nakshatra are highly auspicious for invoking Hanuman's blessings.
Moola Nakshatra for Hanuman Puja
Ruled by Nirriti, the goddess of destruction, and located in Sagittarius, this nakshatra carries intense karmic and ancestral energies.
Hanuman’s worship on Moola Nakshatra is believed to clear ancestral curses, protect against black magic, and ensure stability during sudden upheavals.
AstroPuja organizes Moola Nakshatra Abhishekam to Hanuman at Srirangam, where special tailabhishekam is performed with Vedic chanting to invoke peace and protection for the entire lineage of devotees.
Poorva Bhadrapad Nakshatrafor Hanuman Puja
Associated with deep spiritual transformation, this nakshatra is ideal for seekers wishing to overcome inner fear and darkness.
Worshipping Hanuman under this star accelerates spiritual growth, removes negative planetary effects, and clears illusions.
Pavamana Homam - Havan dedicated to Lord Hanuman
Pavamanas Suktam is a very famous chant from the Vedic tradition. Pavamana Sooktam is found in the Navama Mandala (Ninth Mandala) of Rigveda Samhita that forms a part of Smritis. Pavamana homa finds mention in Taittiriyopanishat and Bruhadaranyaka. It is a very powerful homa that cures the past errors or sins. Consisting of 710 Mantras, Pavamana sukta is about praising Sri Vishnu, Sri Pavamana or Sri Vayudevaru (Hanuman) and Sri Somadeva (Chandra). Parayan or Chanting the highly sanctified Pavamana Sooktam is said to yield all our desires (Sarvakaamapradaayini).
Pavamana Homam is an important fire ritual performed to Lord Hanuman.
Why Offer Urad Dal to Hanuman? A Neivedhya of Strength
- Urad dal (black gram) holds a special place in Hanuman worship, especially in the form of Urad Dal Vada (medu vadai) and Vada Mala.
- Black gram is known to enhance Mars energy and symbolizes grounding and strength.
It is also tamasic in nature, meaning it absorbs negative vibrations, making it ideal to offer to a deity who transmutes tamas into spiritual power.
Preparing and offering urad dal items to Hanuman helps in warding off malefic energies, removing diseases, and gaining physical strength and mental resilience.
Devotees often tie 108 medu vadas in a mala (vada mala) and offer it around the neck of Hanuman idols or images, especially in temples where tailabhishekam is performed.
Vada Mala & Jalebi Mala: Sweet Devotion & Fierce Power
Apart from vada mala, jalebi malas are also popular offerings in North Indian Hanuman temples.
Why Vada Mala?
Symbol of binding one's ego and desires, just as the vadas are strung together.
108 vadas represent 108 Upanishads and deep spiritual symbolism.
Offered particularly to fierce forms like Veera Hanuman or Sankat Mochan.
Why Jalebi Mala?
Jalebi, made of fermented flour and soaked in sugar, represents sweet surrender.
Its spiral shape denotes cyclical karmas, and offering it signifies the devotee's yearning for liberation.
In North India, especially on Tuesdays, jalebi mala is commonly offered along with sindoor, betel leaves, and laddoos.
The Red Sindoor Mystery: Why North Indian Hanuman Idols Are Painted Orange-Red
In temples like Sankat Mochan (Varanasi) or Hanuman Mandir (Connaught Place, Delhi), one often sees the idol of Hanuman smeared in red sindoor or orange vermilion. This practice stems from a beautiful legend:
When Hanuman saw Sita applying sindoor in her hair for the longevity of Rama, he was curious. On learning the significance, Hanuman thought — “If a pinch can bring so much benefit to Rama, why not smear myself entirely with it?” So, he covered his whole body with sindoor in devotion.
This childlike act of bhakti so pleased Rama and Sita that they declared that whoever offered sindoor to Hanuman would receive His blessings and also be blessed with longevity, courage, and health.
Thus, devotees apply sindoor on Hanuman idols and then take a pinch for themselves.
The red color also symbolizes Mars energy (Mangala), courage, vitality, and anger transformed into devotion.
Regional Names and Forms of Hanuman: A National Divine Force
Across India, Hanuman is worshipped in various forms, with regional variations reflecting his wide appeal.
In South India
- Anjaneya – Son of Anjana Devi
- Veera Hanuman – Warrior Hanuman
- Panchamukha Hanuman – Five-faced form with powerful symbolism (Garuda, Varaha, Narasimha, Hayagriva, Hanuman)
- Sanjeevi Hanuman – Depiction of carrying the Sanjeevani mountain
- Kakadaraya Anjaneya – A rare form seen in some Andhra temples
In North India
- Sankat Mochan – The remover of sorrows and troubles
- Bajrangbali – The mighty one with limbs like thunderbolt (Vajra)
- Maruti – The Vayuputra (Son of Wind)
- Lal Hanuman – Due to sindoor, many devotees call Him "Lal" (Red)
This cultural integration is what makes Hanuman a national god of the people — the unifying force of strength, discipline, and spiritual intensity.
Hanuman Puja on Amavasya: Darkness Dissolved by Devotion
Amavasya, the no-moon night, is often feared due to its association with tamas and Pitru-related karma. Yet, for Hanuman worship, it is an exceptionally powerful night.
It is said Hanuman’s light dissolves the darkness of Amavasya.
Performing Hanuman Abhishekam or Homam on this night grants protection from unseen energies and karmic loops.
AstroPuja organizes a powerful Amavasya Panchamrit Abhishekam to Sri Anjaneya at Pilliangiri, Shimoga – where sacred oil is offered to Hanuman along with vada mala, sindoor, and chanting of Hanuman Kavacham.
Similarly, the Panchamukha Hanuman Homam in Kumbakonam, done by experienced Vedic priests on Amavasya, is believed to remove black magic, legal entanglements, and unknown illnesses.
Hanuman as the Living Bridge Between Bhakti and Shakti
What distinguishes Hanuman from other deities is his absolute surrender to the divine. He represents the harmony between intellect (buddhi), devotion (bhakti), and strength (shakti).
By worshipping Ashta Siddhi Hanuman, one does not merely pray for strength — but for the discipline to use that strength wisely, and the grace to remain humble despite possessing it.
Hanuman is the only deity who finds equal reverence in temples, battlefields, yoga ashrams, and modern homes alike. He is timeless, ever awake (Chiranjeevi), and ready to assist those who call Him with love.
Hanuman's Path is the Path of Inner Victory
In an age of chaos, the path of Hanuman is the path of clarity. Through offerings like Urad Dal, tailabhishekam, vada malas, and sindoor, we are not merely performing rituals — we are aligning ourselves with a force that can remove sorrow, protect Dharma, and uplift our soul.
Whether it is Moola Nakshatra at Srirangam, Amavasya at Shimoga, or Homams in Kumbakonam, Astropuja continues the ancient legacy of invoking Hanuman’s presence through authentic rituals performed at sacred temples.
Hanuman as the Eternal Bearer of the Ashta Siddhis
The Ashta Siddhis granted to Hanuman by Mother Sita after his triumphant return from Lanka elevated him from being merely the greatest devotee of Rama to becoming a universal guardian of Dharma. With Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Ishitva, and Vashitva, Hanuman stands as the embodiment of yogic perfection and divine service. His powers are not instruments of personal glory but sacred trusts used solely to protect the righteous, destroy evil, and guide seekers. Even today, invoking Hanuman’s grace is believed to awaken these powers within a devotee, in proportion to their purity, faith, and surrender to the Divine Will.
May the blessings of Ashta Siddhi Hanuman guide you in every endeavor, filling your life with courage, wisdom, and unwavering devotion.
Jai Bajrangbali! Jai Veera Hanuman!
