Indore’s Ranjeet Hanuman: The Enigmatic Shrine Of Victory And Devotion | FP Photo
Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Nestled in the heart of Indore, the Ranjeet Hanuman Temple stands as a mysterious and revered shrine, drawing devotees from across the world.
What makes this temple unique is the enigma surrounding the idol of Lord Hanuman—no one knows when or how it manifested. Worshippers believe this swayambhu (self-manifested) idol holds divine powers, especially in granting victory over enemies.
For the past 130 years, devotees, including kings and warriors, have sought blessings here for triumph in battles and struggles.
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Idol unlike any other
According to local scholars, the temple was constructed 130 years ago, but the idol’s origins remain unknown. Unlike traditional Hanuman idols, this one features an open mouth and faces the southeast (Agneya Mukhi), signifying its unique divine energy.
At Lord Hanuman’s feet lies Ahiravan, the demon he defeated, depicting a scene of victory. This remarkable image symbolises the triumph of good over evil.
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Legend of Ranjeet Hanuman’s blessing
An age-old tale links the temple to a king who, when losing a battle, sought refuge in the Bharthari Caves. There, a meditating sage handed him a piece of bread and instructed him to scatter its crumbs along his path. Where the crumbs ended, he would find a divine temple that would bless him with victory.
The king followed the sage’s guidance and discovered the Ranjeet Hanuman Temple. After worshipping here, he achieved success in battle, leading to the temple’s fame as a place where devotees pray for triumph over adversities.
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Grand Prabhat Pheri: A spectacle of faith
Temple priest Pandit Deepesh Vyas highlights the Ranjeet Ashtami Prabhat Pheri, the largest early-morning religious procession in central India. More than one lakh devotees participate in this prabhat pheri every year, passing through Mahu Naka, Annapurna, Usha Nagar, Gumasta Nagar and Scheme No. 71 before returning to the temple.
Prior to this, a grand Deepotsav is held, illuminating the temple with 21,000 lamps, while the idol is adorned and worshipped with 51,000 sacred threads. Saints, devotees and spiritual leaders join the divine event, making it a mesmerising experience.
The Ranjeet Hanuman Temple remains a beacon of divine power, faith and service, continuing to bless devotees with strength and victory over life’s battles.
