Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP or Hanuman Temple CP is an ancient Hindu temple that is said to be one of the five Mahabharata temples located in New Delhi city. The temple is located in Cannaught Palace, New Delhi. After winning the Kurukshetra war against the Kauravs, the Pandavas built five temples, including this Temple, according to Hindu beliefs.

The original temple appears to have been built around the same time as the Jantar-Mantar by Maharaja Jai Singh, but it has undergone extensive renovations since then. The deity of Hanuman of this temple is very unique and self-manifested. For those who wish to explore the magical mythology of Indian culture, this is a beautiful spot to visit.

Story/Legend related to Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP

The temple has a historical connection to the Mahabharata period. Indraprastha, the Pandavas’ city, was built near the Yamuna River. Pandavas lost their kingdom in a dice game, were exiled for 13 years, and no one should recognise them in the last year.

The temple has a strong belief and profound historical significance that captivates every single visitor who comes here. According to Hindu legend, this temple was built after the Pandavas defeated the Kauravs in the Kurukshetra War. Initially, Maharaja Jai Singh completed the temple construction. It was a time when even Jantar-Mantar was undergoing multiple renovations.

History of Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP

Tulsidas (1532-1623), the author of Ramacharitamanas (popularly known as Tulsi Ramayan) and the famous Hanuman Chalisa hymns in praise of Hanuman, is said to have visited this temple in Delhi. Tulsidas was summoned to Delhi by the Mughal Emperor and asked to perform a miracle, which he did with the blessings of Lord Hanuman.

Tulsidas pleased the Emperor, who presented the Hanuman temple with an Islamic crescent Moon finial that adorns the temple spire. It is also claimed that because of the crescent moon symbol on the spire, the temple was spared destruction by Muslim rulers who invaded India at various times.

The architecture of Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP

This Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP Delhi has stood as a symbol of Delhi for centuries! As you enter the temple entrance gate, you will notice the magnificent Dwar, which is embellished with impressive artwork. You can see the skilled craftsmanship and excellent embossment on it here.

The entire temple exudes devotion and pure serenity, which is mystic and magical. If you look up at the central mandap, you can see paintings from epic Ramayana tales on the roof. These paintings will transport you to the depths of temple beauty and majesty.

Moving on, the preaching of Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP includes verses from Sundarkand by Swami Tulsidas Ramacharitha Manas. This holy book’s mesmerising verses are deeply engraved into the substantial marble slabs. You can see the most recent developments on the entire temple complex, which is meticulously maintained by the New Delhi Municipal Council.

For the various religious activities held here, this temple holds a unique position. Inside the temple, you can also see professional artists applying mehndi to the ladies’ palms.

In recent years, the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) has added some more god and goddess idols in the Hanuman Mandir Delhi within the main complex.

Facts about Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP

• Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP is situated at Baba Kharak Singh Marg in Connaught Place, New Delhi.
• It is one of the most seasoned Hanumana temples in India. The Temple is said to have been built by Raja Jai Singh around 1724 AD.
• The 24-hour chanting of the mantra ‘Sri Ram, Jai Ram, Jai Ram’, since August 1, 1964, has earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records.
• The main statue at the temple faces south and is of Hanuman. In honour of Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita, the divinity holds a gada in his left hand and his right hand rests on his midsection.
• Devotees gather at the Temple in expansive numbers on Tuesday and Saturday.
• The roof of the primary corridor is decorated with fine art portraying the Ramayana, the colossal Hindu epic.
• Designs are drawn on the palms of ladies using mehandi paste. This form of art popular in Rajasthan had come to stay here in Delhi and this temple complex serves as a node.

Famous Festivals In Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP

Millions of people visit this Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP every year to celebrate all of the festivals that are held here. Some major festivals held here are

• Hanuman Jayanti – Hanuman Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of the Hindu deity, and one of the protagonists of the Ramayana, Hanuman.
• Shri Ramanavmi – Rama Navami is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Rama, one the most popularly revered deities in Hinduism, also known as the seventh avatar of Vishnu.
• Diwali – Diwali is one of the most admired and auspicious festivals in the town. A very famous Mela (fair) is conducted near the temple every year.
• MahaShivratri – Mahashivratri, “The Great Night of Shiva” is the most significant event in India’s Hindu calendar.
• Other religious functions at the Mandir include Lakshmi Puja, Saraswati Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi etc.

How to Reach Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP

By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport is the nearest airport and the distance from the Airport to Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP is 13 KM.

By Rail: New Delhi Railway Station is the nearest railway station and the distance from Station to Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP is only 3 KM.

By Road: You can reach this temple by any mode of transportation. Regular bus and cab services are available in the city. Shivaji Stadium is the closest bus stand.

By Metro: Nearest Metro Station is Rajiv Chowk. The Prachin Hanuman Mandir CP is just a few metres away from Rajiv Chowk.

Also, Read –  Chhatarpur Temple