Why Do Devotees Offer Sindoor (Vermilion) to Lord Hanuman?
If you visit a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, you will notice his idols are almost always covered in a vibrant orange or red paste. This tradition of offering Sindoor (vermilion) is one of the most significant rituals in Hanuman worship.
But what is the origin of this practice? The answer lies in a heartwarming story of devotion from the Adbhut Ramayana.
The Innocent Curiosity of Hanuman
According to the legend, the story takes place shortly after Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. One Tuesday morning, a hungry Hanuman approached Mata Sita (Janaki) asking for a snack.
As Sita was preparing to serve him, Hanuman noticed her applying a bright red powder—Sindoor—to the parting of her hair. Curious by nature, Hanuman asked, “Mother, what is this red substance you are applying to your forehead?”
The Secret to Lord Rama’s Longevity
Mata Sita smiled at Hanuman’s innocent question and explained the sacred tradition. She told him that for a married woman, Sindoor is an auspicious symbol.
“My son,” she said, “this is Sindoor. I apply it to ensure a long and healthy life for my Lord, Sri Rama. It is a mark of my love and devotion, and it keeps him pleased.”
The Ultimate Act of Devotion
Hanuman, the greatest devotee of Rama, began to reflect deeply on Sita’s words. He thought to himself:
“If a tiny pinch of Sindoor in Mata Sita’s hair can ensure my Lord’s long life and happiness, imagine what would happen if I covered my entire body with it!”
Driven by his pure, selfless love, Hanuman skipped his meal and immediately smeared vermilion over his entire body. He believed that by doing this, he would make Lord Rama immortal and eternally happy.
Lord Rama’s Blessing
When Hanuman entered the royal court covered from head to toe in bright orange powder, the courtiers began to laugh at his appearance. Even Lord Rama could not suppress a smile.
“Hanuman,” Rama asked, “Why have you covered yourself in Sindoor?”
With total humility, Hanuman replied, “My Lord, Mata Sita told me that a pinch of Sindoor ensures your long life and happiness. To make you immortal and to show my boundless love, I have covered my whole body in it.”
Moved to tears by Hanuman’s “Bhakti” (devotion), Lord Rama embraced him. He declared that from that day forward, anyone who offered Sindoor to Hanuman would be blessed with prosperity and their obstacles would be removed.
Key Takeaways: Why the Ritual Matters Today
| Aspect | Spiritual Significance |
| Orange Color | Symbolizes energy, enthusiasm, and intense devotion. |
| Shattering Ego | Like the thick layer of Sindoor, true devotion covers the ego. |
| Tuesday & Saturday | The most auspicious days to offer Sindoor and Jasmine oil (Chola) to Hanuman. |
| Protection | Devotees believe applying a dot of Hanuman’s Sindoor on their forehead protects them from evil. |
