Hanuman Puja during Diwali is an auspicious observance for many communities across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and parts of North India. In 2025, the Hanuman Puja aligned with Diwali is observed on October 19–20, coinciding with Kali Choudas (Narak Chaturdashi). This day is traditionally dedicated to dispelling darkness, overcoming negativity, and invoking courage and protectionqualities deeply associated with Sri Hanuman.
On Kali Choudas, households and temples focus on sadhana that fortifies inner strength and removes obstacles. Alongside Hanuman Puja, regional traditions often include Kali Puja, Kali Yantra Puja, and Narak Chautdashi Tharpan Puja, reflecting the layered spiritual fabric of the Diwali period. These practices emphasize clarity, discipline, and the renewal of intent before the festival of lights culminates on Amavasya.
Devotees commonly offer oil, sindoor, jasmine or marigold flowers, and betel leaves to Hanuman, recite the Hanuman Chalisa, and light lamps to signify the triumph of light over darkness. Many also perform the early morning abhyanga snan on Narak Chaturdashi and visit Hanuman temples seeking kshama (forgiveness), bala (strength), and raksha (protection). Such observances are valued not for complexity, but for sincerity; even simple offerings, performed with shraddha, are considered meaningful.
Timings for Hanuman Puja on Kali Choudas are traditionally aligned with the Chaturdashi tithi, with many preferring pre-dawn or evening hours. In 2025, with the observance falling on October 19–20, local panchang guidance is recommended to identify the most appropriate muhurta by region and city. This attention to timing supports the day’s protective focus and harmonizes personal practice with the lunar calendar.
For families and communities, the atmosphere of Kali Choudas is both reflective and reassuring. The gentle glow of diyas, the fragrance of sesame oil, and the familiar cadence of the Hanuman Chalisa create a shared space for intergenerational learningchildren hear stories of Narakasura’s defeat, while elders highlight the everyday relevance of Hanuman’s unwavering devotion and fearlessness. These moments strengthen community bonds and anchor Diwali celebrations in lived experience.
The values embodied in Hanuman Pujaseva (selfless service), dhairya (steadfastness), and viveka (discernment)resonate across dharmic traditions. While specific rituals remain rooted in Hindu practice, the underlying ideals of courage, ethical conduct, and compassion are cherished within the broader dharmic familyHinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhismnurturing mutual respect and unity of purpose during the festive season.
In regions such as Gujarat, the day’s distinctive identity as Kali Choudas underscores its protective and purificatory dimension, complementing the Diwali ethos of illumination and renewal. Whether one observes Hanuman Puja quietly at home or joins community gatherings, the focus remains consistent: cultivating inner strength, dissolving fear, and preparing the mind for the deeper spiritual celebrations of Deepavali.
In 2025, observing Hanuman Puja on Kali Choudas (Narak Chaturdashi) offers a timely opportunity to align ritual, meaning, and intention. By approaching the day with clarity, humility, and a spirit of inclusion, devotees honor tradition while reinforcing shared dharmic values that sustain harmony within families and communities throughout the Diwali period.
Inspired by this post on Hindu Pad.
