Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Arpan: Rituals, Significance, and Complete Vidhi

Lord Hanuman, the embodiment of devotion, strength, and service, is worshipped by millions of devotees. Two important rituals performed for Hanuman Ji are Abhishek (sacred bathing) and Chola Arpan (offering of a sacred cloth). These rituals are believed to bring blessings, remove obstacles, and provide protection from negative energies.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the mythology and significance behind these rituals, the step-by-step vidhi (procedure), the necessary samagri (materials required), the best days and festivals to perform these sacred offerings, and the dos and don’ts to ensure proper devotion and ritual purity.

Mythology and Story Behind Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Arpan

Hanuman Abhishek: The Sacred Bathing of Lord Hanuman

In Hindu tradition, Abhishek is the ritualistic bathing of a deity with sacred substances like water, milk, honey, and Panchamrit. The concept of abhishek finds mention in various Hindu scriptures and Puranas.

According to the Ramayana, Lord Hanuman, after burning Lanka with his fiery tail, cooled himself in the ocean. This symbolic act represents purification and renewal. Performing an Abhishek of Hanuman Ji is believed to cleanse devotees of sins and invoke his divine blessings for strength and wisdom.

Chola Arpan: The Offering of Sacred Cloth

The tradition of Chola Arpan (offering of an orange cloth to Hanuman Ji) originates from a legend where Lord Hanuman covered himself in sindoor (vermilion) to express his eternal devotion to Lord Rama. When Lord Rama saw this, he blessed Hanuman, saying that anyone who offers him sindoor and a chola (cloth) would receive unwavering protection and divine grace.

Proper Vidhi of Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Arpan

Step-by-Step Vidhi of Hanuman Abhishek

Preparations:

1. Cleanse yourself and wear fresh clothes.

2. Clean the idol of Hanuman Ji with water.

3. Place the idol or picture on a clean red cloth.

4. Light a diya (lamp) and incense sticks.

Performing the Abhishek:

1. Offer water to Hanuman Ji while chanting "ॐ हं हनुमते नमः" (Om Ham Hanumate Namah).

2. Bathe the idol with Panchamrit (milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar).

3. Rinse the idol with clean Ganga Jal or water.

4. Offer sindoor mixed with oil and apply it to Hanuman Ji’s body.

5. Chant the Hanuman Chalisa and Sundarkand for added benefits.

Step-by-Step Vidhi of Hanuman Chola Arpan

1. Offer a fresh orange or red cloth as a chola to Hanuman Ji.

2. Mix sindoor with jasmine oil and apply it evenly on the idol.

3. Adorn Hanuman Ji with flowers, garlands, and a mala (rosary).

4. Offer fruits, jaggery, and ladoos, as Hanuman Ji loves these offerings.

5. Perform aarti with a camphor lamp and conclude with prayers.

Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Samagri (Materials Required)

Samagri for Abhishek:

• Ganga Jal (holy water)

• Panchamrit (milk, curd, honey, ghee, sugar)

• Sindoor (vermilion)

• Jasmine oil

• Sandalwood paste

• Tulsi leaves

• Flowers and garlands

• A clean red or orange cloth

Samagri for Chola Arpan:

• Orange or red cloth (chola)

• Sindoor mixed with jasmine oil

• Mala (garland)

• Ladoos, bananas, and jaggery

• Diya (lamp) and incense sticks

Significance of Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Arpan

• Removes negative energy and obstacles: Hanuman Ji is the remover of problems (Sankatmochan).

• Brings strength, courage, and devotion: Devotees gain mental and physical strength.

• Ensures protection from evil forces: Hanuman Ji’s grace shields devotees from harm.

• Fulfillment of desires: Those seeking success and progress in life find guidance.

• Brings peace and prosperity: Devotees experience calmness and divine bliss.

Best Days and Festivals for Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Arpan

• Tuesdays and Saturdays: Most auspicious days for worshiping Hanuman Ji.

• Hanuman Jayanti: The most sacred occasion for performing these rituals.

• Mangalvar Vrat (Tuesday Fasting): Many devotees perform Abhishek on this day.

• Ram Navami: A special day to seek Hanuman Ji’s blessings in devotion to Lord Rama.

• Sankashti Chaturthi: For removing obstacles and achieving success.

Dos and Don’ts for Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Arpan

Dos:

✔ Perform the rituals with a pure heart and devotion. ✔ Use clean and fresh samagri (materials). ✔ Recite Hanuman Chalisa and mantras during the process. ✔ Offer sindoor mixed with jasmine oil as it pleases Hanuman Ji. ✔ Donate food and essentials to the needy after the ritual.

Don’ts:

✖ Do not perform Abhishek or Chola Arpan if you are impure (after eating non-veg or alcohol). ✖ Avoid using black-colored clothes or flowers in offerings. ✖ Do not perform the ritual with negative emotions like anger or greed. ✖ Never disrespect the prasad or offerings by wasting them.

Conclusion

Hanuman Abhishek and Chola Arpan are powerful rituals that bring immense blessings, courage, and divine protection. By following the proper vidhi, using the right samagri, and observing the dos and don’ts, devotees can seek Lord Hanuman’s grace and achieve strength, success, and peace in life.

Perform these sacred rituals with sincerity and devotion, and Hanuman Ji will surely bless you with happiness and fulfillment.