Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga in Nashik, Maharashtra
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Anjani Mata Bal Hanuman Mandir, Anjaneri, Maharashtra
Anjani Mata Bal Hanuman Mandir is the sacred place where Hanuman ji spent his childhood. One day when he felt hungry, he jumped from the cliff to eat the Sun, thinking it was a red fruit.
Story of Anjani Mata Bal Hanuman Mandir in Anjaneri
Anjani Mata Bal Hanuman Mandir is located amidst the tranquil hills of Anjaneri, just outside the bustling city of Nashik in Maharashtra. This sacred temple is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.
According to Hindu mythology, Anjaneri Hill is named after Anjani, Lord Hanuman's mother. The legend goes that Anjani, who was an apsara (celestial nymph) in her previous life, prayed intensely for a son who would be strong, devoted, and would serve a divine purpose. Her prayers were answered, and she gave birth to Hanuman, an incarnation of Lord Shiva.
Hanuman, often referred to as the greatest devotee of Lord Rama, was born with extraordinary strength, valor, and an unshakable devotion to dharma. The Anjaneri Bal Hanuman Mandir is dedicated to Lord Hanuman's childhood form, representing his innocence, playfulness, and strength.
The Legend of Hanuman and Anjani
The tale begins in Anjaneri, the place where Lord Hanuman spent his childhood with his mother, Anjani Mata. One day, a young Hanuman, feeling quite hungry, reminisced about the delicious red, round fruits his mother used to give him. Inspired by the memories of his mother’s love, he dashed out of the cave, hoping to find something to eat.
As he looked up into the sky, he spotted a radiant object that resembled the very fruit he craved. Without a moment's hesitation, young Hanuman leaped into the air, believing he was about to catch a delectable treat. However, to his astonishment, it was none other than the Sun that he had attempted to consume!
The celestial beings were alarmed as Hanuman attempted to swallow the Sun. It took a great effort from the gods to rescue Surya from Hanuman's grasp, illustrating the immense strength and determination that Hanuman possessed even in his childhood.
Today, the exact spot where Hanuman made his leap is marked by a small lake, believed to be the place where his feet touched the ground as he jumped.
How to Reach Anjaneri Bal Hanuman Mandir
By Air: The nearest airport is Nashik Airport (Ozar), which is about 50 kilometers from Anjaneri Hill. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take public transportation to reach the base of the hill.
By Train: The closest railway station is Nashik Road Railway Station, which is about 30 kilometers away. From here, local transport such as taxis or buses can take you to Anjaneri.
By Road: Anjaneri is well-connected by road to Nashik, which is about 20 kilometers away. You can easily hire a taxi, take a local bus, or drive to the base of Anjaneri Hill, where the trek to the temple begins.
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