Sankat Mochan Temple in Varanasi
Sankat Mochan temple in Varanasi was founded by the great author Shri Tulsidas who was the author of Ramcharitramanasa. It is also said that Shri Tulsidas had vision of God Hanuman at this place. The present structure of temple was built in 1900s by freedom fighter and founder of Banaras Hindu University Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya. The word Sankat Mochan in hindi means the reliever of obstacles and troubles. Everyday devotees visit to temple but the number increases on Tuesday and Saturday. Saturday and Tuesday is considered to be the day of Hanuman. People use to make offering to God like sweets (Laddoo), flowers and Tulsi.
The devotees has faith that regular visit to Sankat Mochan temple will gain a special favor of God Hanuman. The devotees whose astrological chart shows the ill placement of Saturn (Shani) and Mars (Mangal) especially visit this temple for the remedies. There are festivals like Hanuman Jayanti (the Birthday of Hanuman) which is celebrated with a procession starting from the nearby temple known as Durga Temple.
Every year there is festival titled Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh which has gained the worldwide popularity. It was first organized in 1975, and numerous stalwarts of Indian Classical music and dance performs. The Six days long festival Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh starts late in evening and ends at dawn.
Here are some key details about the temple:
- Dedication: The Sankat Mochan Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a devoted disciple of Lord Rama in Hindu mythology. Lord Hanuman is considered the remover of obstacles and is worshipped for strength, courage, and protection.
- Location: The temple is situated in the southern part of Varanasi, near the river Ganga. Its location makes it easily accessible to pilgrims and tourists.
- Founder: The temple was founded by the famous Hindu saint and poet Goswami Tulsidas in the early 16th century. Tulsidas is renowned for his devotion to Lord Rama and his epic poem, the “Ramcharitmanas.”
- Architecture: The Sankat Mochan Temple features traditional North Indian temple architecture, with distinctive spires and a serene courtyard. It is a place of tranquility amidst the bustling city of Varanasi.
- Significance: Devotees flock to the Sankat Mochan Temple to seek Lord Hanuman’s blessings and to offer their prayers and petitions, particularly for the removal of obstacles and difficulties in their lives. It is believed that regular visits to the temple can alleviate one’s “sankat” or troubles.
- Festivals: The temple sees significant celebrations during Hanuman Jayanti, the birthday of Lord Hanuman, which falls on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Chaitra (usually in March or April). Devotees gather in large numbers to participate in special prayers and processions.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: The Sankat Mochan Temple is known for its commitment to environmental conservation. It has taken initiatives to promote cleanliness and sustainability in the Varanasi area and has made efforts to reduce pollution in the nearby river.
- Musical Evenings: The temple is also famous for its daily evening musical performances, known as “Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh.” These concerts often feature classical Indian music and are attended by music enthusiasts.