Shri Hanuman Puja: Tambula Seva with 108 Betel Leaves Garland

The offering of betel leaves, or Tambula, to Shri Hanuman is rooted in ancient tradition and mythology, particularly from the epic Ramayana. One well-known story recounts the moment when Hanuman, on a mission from Shri Rama, reached Lanka to locate Sita Mata, who was held captive by the demon king Ravana. After enduring many trials, Hanuman finally met Sita in the Ashoka Vatika and presented her with Rama’s ring as a token of reassurance. Moved by his loyalty and devotion, Sita wished to give him something in return, yet she had only a few betel leaves to offer. Hanuman, understanding the depth of her gratitude, accepted the leaves with reverence. This act of humility became symbolic, inspiring generations to offer betel leaves as a gesture of devotion and respect, with faith that Hanuman blesses devotees with strength, courage, protection, and well-being.

• Abhisheka + Tambula Alankara: The Vishesha Tambula Seva follows this tradition, including sacred Abhisheka (ritual bathing) with Panchamrutha and Tambula Alankara, where Sri Hanuman is adorned with a garland made from 108 betel leaves. The ritual continues with Shata Namavali Ashtottararchana, using flowers and holy basil to chant 108 names of the Bhangwan, as well as a Naivedya offering, including a basket of pomegranates, bananas, and honey, items especially dear to Shri Hanuman. The seva concludes with Mahamangalarati and recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa, fostering a deeper spiritual connection with the deity.

• Phala Samarpan: An integral part of the seva is the offering of fruits, known as Phala Samarpan, which includes bananas, mangoes, oranges, and pomegranates. The fruit variety is subject to seasonality. Each fruit holds spiritual significance: bananas embody humility, mangoes signify divine sweetness, oranges symbolize joy and abundance, while pomegranates represent fertility and strength. These colourful offerings - red, yellow, and orange - are believed to attract vitality, protection, and success, invoking the qualities dear to Shri Hanuman. The Samarpan offerings or Naivedya are curated to include those that are especially cherished by Shri Hanuman.

• Madhu Samarpan: Madhu Arpanam, the offering of honey, represents the sweetness and purity of devotion. Honey embodies Hanuman’s strength, simplicity, and purity, and through this offering, devotees seek blessings of health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. Honey’s calming properties are thought to bring inner peace and balance, connecting devotees more closely to Bhagwan Hanuman’s grace. Offering honey, along with other fruits and Tambula, strengthens the bond between devotee and deity, invoking Sri Hanuman’s blessings for protection, prosperity, and the removal of life’s obstacles.