Significance of Bada Mangal: In Sanatan Dharma, the month of Jyeshtha is considered to be of special significance. The month of Jyeshtha begins following Vaishakh Purnima (the full moon of Vaishakh). Devotional practice dedicated to Lord Hanuman holds particular importance during this month, as every Tuesday within this period is celebrated as 'Bada Mangal' (The Great Tuesday).

In Hinduism, every Tuesday of the month of Jyeshtha is accorded special significance. The Tuesdays falling within this month are referred to as 'Bada Mangal,' and they are considered extremely auspicious for the worship of Lord Hanuman. This year, the significance of the month of Jyeshtha has been further heightened due to the rare occurrence of *Adhikmas* (an intercalary month). Consequently, instead of the usual 4 or 5 Tuesdays, there are a total of 8 'Bada Mangals' this year—a phenomenon that is truly extraordinary in itself. A noteworthy aspect is that, owing to *Adhikmas* (also known as *Purushottam Mas*), devotees are blessed with the unique opportunity of observing eight 'Bada Mangals'—double the number typically observed in a standard year. This presents a twofold opportunity for devotees to engage in the worship of Lord Hanuman.

Among these, the first and the last Tuesdays hold particular religious significance. On these days, devotees strive to please Lord Hanuman by reciting the *Sundarkand* and the *Hanuman Chalisa*. It is believed that if a person recites the *Hanuman Chalisa* continuously for 40 days, they receive special divine grace and reap numerous benefits.

When is the First Tuesday of Jyeshtha?

This year, the month of Jyeshtha commences on May 2nd and concludes on June 29th. According to the *Panchang* (Hindu almanac), the first 'Bada Mangal' of the month of Jyeshtha falls on May 5th. This day is considered exceptionally special for devotees of Hanuman, as it marks the commencement of the auspicious festival of 'Bada Mangal,' during which devotees worship Lord Bajrangbali with immense enthusiasm and deep reverence.

According to the legends of the *Ramayana*, Lord Hanuman first met Lord Rama while the latter was searching for his consort, Goddess Sita. To ascertain the true identities of Lord Rama and Lord Lakshmana, Hanuman had assumed the guise of a priest. Once he realized the true nature of Lord Rama and Lord Lakshmana, Hanuman bowed down before Lord Rama in humble reverence. The first meeting between Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama took place on a Tuesday during the month of Jyeshtha; consequently, these Tuesdays of the Jyeshtha month came to be known as 'Bada Mangal' (The Great Tuesday).

On 'Bada Mangal'—a sacred day of faith and worship during the month of Jyeshtha—Hanuman temples witness a ceaseless stream of devotees. On this day, special prayers and rituals are performed, involving the offering of *sindoor* (vermilion) and a *chola* (sacred vestment) to the Son of the Wind. Reciting the *Hanuman Chalisa* and *Bajrang Baan* is considered particularly meritorious for devotees, bringing them profound mental peace. Symbolizing a unique tradition of selfless service, this festival is not merely confined to worship but stands as a living embodiment of service to others.

The massive community feasts (*Bhandaras*) organized across various locations are a hallmark of this day, where people from all walks of society gather to partake in the sacred food (*Prasad*) together. On Bada Mangal, it is customary to set up *Pyaus* (stalls providing cold drinking water) and distribute *Sharbat* (sweet beverages) and *Prasad* at various spots—an act considered highly auspicious for earning the grace of Lord Hanuman.

Fasting and spiritual practices undertaken during the month of Jyeshtha yield exceptional results, as the intensity of the sun is at its peak during this period, significantly influencing energy levels. Acts of worship and penance performed during this month are believed to bestow great spiritual merit.

**Worship Method**
Wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear red attire. Offer a *chola* of *sindoor* mixed with jasmine oil to Lord Hanuman. As a sacred offering (*Bhog*), present *Boondi Laddus* or a mixture of jaggery and roasted gram (*Gur-Chana*). Chant the mantra "Om Ham Hanumate Namah" and recite the *Hanuman Chalisa*.

**Benefits of the Bada Mangal Fast**
**Deliverance from Troubles:** Lord Hanuman is revered as *Sankatmochan* (The Remover of Troubles). Observing the Bada Mangal fast helps alleviate even the most formidable obstacles in one's life.
**Remedy for *Mangal Dosha*:** For individuals whose horoscopes indicate a strong or adverse influence of the planet Mars (*Mangal*), these eight Tuesdays serve as a crucial period for engaging in acts of service and charity.
**Fulfillment of Desires:** Reciting the *Sundarkand* or *Hanuman Chalisa* with sincere devotion is believed to fulfill the heartfelt wishes of the devotee.
**Service and Charity:** It is a cherished tradition on this day to organize community feasts (*Bhandaras*) and set up arrangements to provide drinking water at various public locations.

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