Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], April 2 : A large number of devotees gathered at the iconic Jakhu Hanuman Temple on Thursday on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, with prominent political leaders, tourists, and locals visiting the shrine to offer prayers.
Leader of Opposition and former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur also visited the temple and extended greetings to the people.
Speaking to ANI, Thakur said, "First of all, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to everyone on Hanuman Jayanti. The kind of devotion we are witnessing today, with people arriving in large numbers for darshan and blessings at this historic temple, is remarkable. I pray that Lord Hanuman protects us all, gives us strength, and blesses the state to progress further."
Referring to the ongoing budget session, he added, "The budget session is concluding today. This budget will be remembered in the history of Himachal Pradesh, especially as it reflects serious financial challenges. Several issues of public interest were raised by the opposition, but satisfactory responses were not received. The coming time indicates a difficult phase for the state, which is a matter of concern."
Temple priest R.P. Sharma explained that this day marks the birth of Lord Hanuman, noting that his 'Janmotsav' is celebrated twice annually across different regional traditions.
Speaking to ANI, Sharma said, "On the occasion of Hanuman Janmotsav, there is a huge rush of devotees at the temple. Hanuman Ji is believed to have taken birth on this day, and the festival is celebrated twice a year in different traditions. This temple has an ancient history, and devotees have been arriving since early morning for blessings. Special prayers and yajna are being conducted today."
Tourists visiting Shimla also expressed their enthusiasm for Hanuman Janmotsav. Karan Kumar, who came from Haryana, said, "It feels wonderful to have had darshan here. This is my first visit to Shimla, and visiting Jakhu Temple has been a great experience. The devotion here inspires us to follow the ideals of Lord Hanuman."
Another tourist, Tarun, said, "It is a matter of great excitement. I was not aware that today is Hanuman Jayanti, but I feel fortunate to have had darshan on this day. The arrangements by the administration and temple authorities are excellent."
Several political leaders also visited the temple during the day. Himachal Pradesh Minister for Town and Country Planning and Technical Education Rajesh Dharmani offered prayers along with other cabinet colleagues.
Speaking to ANI, Dharmani said, "Hanuman Jayanti is a very important day. I pray that the coming year is auspicious for the entire state and that Himachal continues to progress and become self-reliant."
Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh, who visited the temple with his family, said, "I extend my greetings to everyone on this occasion. I pray that Lord Hanuman's blessings remain on the entire state. As Sankat Mochan, may he remove all difficulties and guide Himachal towards progress and prosperity."
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu also visited the temple and declared that he prayed for people's well-being.
Speaking to ANI, Sukhu said, "On the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, we draw inspiration from the ideals of Lord Hanuman. I have come here today to seek blessings and pray for the well-being of the people."
Apart from local residents, a large number of tourists also visited the temple, adding to the festive atmosphere in Shimla. Authorities and temple management made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth darshan for devotees throughout the day.