Bada Mangal 2024: Date, Place, Significance and Rituals

Bada Mangal, also known as Budhwa Mangal, is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Hanuman, celebrated with great fervor in the city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. In 2024, devotees will have the opportunity to observe Bada Mangal on four consecutive Tuesdays in the month of Jyeshtha. Let's dive into the dates, significance, rituals, and the vibrant celebrations of Bada Mangal in 2024.

Bada Mangal 2024 Dates

Bada Mangal is celebrated every Tuesday in the month of Jyestha, which is the third month of the Hindu calendar following Vaishakh. In 2024, devotees will have the opportunity to participate in the festivities on the following dates:

1. First Bada Mangal: 28th May 2024

2. Second Bada Mangal: 4th June 2024

3. Third Bada Mangal: 11th June 2024

4. Fourth Bada Mangal: 18th June 2024

The Significance of Bada Mangal

Bada Mangal holds deep religious significance, especially in Lucknow. The origin of Bada Mangal is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed that during the Treta Yuga, Lord Ram met his devoted follower Hanuman in the month of Jyeshtha. To commemorate this significant event, each Tuesday of Jyeshtha is celebrated as Bada Mangal. Devotees believe that worshiping Hanuman on these days can alleviate their biggest troubles and bring prosperity and happiness into their lives.

Bada Mangal History

The tradition of celebrating Bada Mangal dates back to the reign of Nawab Saadat Ali Khan of Awadh (1798-1814). According to legends, the Nawab's son, Mohammad Ali Shah, fell seriously ill, and despite all efforts, his condition did not improve. On someone's advice, Nawab and his Begum visited the Lord Hanuman temple in Aliganj, Lucknow, to pray for their son's recovery. Miraculously, the son recovered, and the Begum vowed to construct a temple dedicated to Hanuman in gratitude. The construction of the temple was completed in the month of Jyeshtha, and thus began the tradition of celebrating Bada Mangal.

Bada Mangal Rituals and Celebrations

Temple Visits and Prayers

On each Bada Mangal, devotees visit Hanuman temples to offer prayers and perform rituals. They apply vermillion (sindoor) on Hanuman idols, chant the Hanuman Chalisa, and read the Sundarakanda from the Ramayana. The atmosphere in temples is charged with devotion and the sound of bhajans and kirtans.

Community Spirit

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Bada Mangal is the tradition of setting up water and sharbat (sweet drink) stalls across Lucknow. Every 100 meters, you will find locals providing refreshments to passersby, embodying the spirit of sharing and community welfare that Lord Hanuman himself represents.

Bhandaara

On Bada Mangal, bhandaara (community feasts) is a heartwarming tradition in Lucknow. Devotees set up stalls to distribute free food and drinks to everyone, symbolizing charity and community spirit. It's a joyous occasion where people come together to share meals and spread happiness in the name of Lord Hanuman.

Special Pujas and Bhajans

On Bada Mangal, special pujas and bhajans are held at Hanuman temples. Devotees gather to sing hymns and offer prayers to Lord Hanuman, creating a joyful and devotional atmosphere. These rituals, filled with vibrant music and heartfelt chanting, bring the community together, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual connection. It's a beautiful way to honor Hanuman and seek his blessings.

Top 3 Hanuman Temples in Lucknow

If you are in Lucknow during Bada Mangal, visiting the following temples is a must to experience the glory and devotion of this festival:

1. Hanumant Dham

Location: Rani Pratap Marg, Lucknow

Hanumant Dham, located on Rani Pratap Marg, is a renowned temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is known for its serene atmosphere and the large Hanuman idol. On Bada Mangal, the temple is adorned with flowers and lights, and devotees line up early in the morning to offer prayers. The temple also organizes kirtans and distributes prasad (holy food) to all visitors.

2. Hanuman Setu

Location: Banks of Gomti River, Lucknow

Situated on the banks of the Gomti River, Hanuman Setu is another prominent Hanuman temple in Lucknow. The temple is particularly beautiful, with its scenic location adding to the spiritual ambiance. During Bada Mangal, the temple hosts elaborate rituals, and the sight of hundreds of oil lamps floating on the river as part of the evening aarti (prayer) is truly mesmerizing.

3. Purana Hanuman Mandir

Location: Aliganj, Lucknow

The Purana Hanuman Mandir in Aliganj is steeped in history and holds a special place in the hearts of Lucknow's residents. It is believed that this is the temple where the Nawab's wife prayed for her son's recovery. The temple sees a massive influx of devotees during Bada Mangal, and the celebrations here are marked by grandeur and deep devotion. The temple premise becomes a hub of activity, with various stalls offering prasad and religious items.

Bada Mangal Puja Vidhi

On the day of Big Mangal, special puja rituals are performed for Lord Hanuman. Devotees wake up early in the morning, take a bath, wear clean clothes, and visit Hanuman temples. There, they offer chola to Hanuman Ji, recite Sundarkand, and use flowers, garlands, sindoor, and prasad in the puja. Deepam is lit in the temple, aarti is performed, and prasad is distributed.

How to Participate in Bada Mangal 2024

If you're planning to participate in Bada Mangal 2024, here are a few tips to make the most of the experience:

1. Visit Early: Temples are usually crowded, so it's best to visit early in the morning to offer your prayers peacefully.

2. Participate in Bhandaras: If possible, contribute to or help organize a bhandara. Engage in the community spirit by either volunteering or simply enjoying the free meals provided at the various bhandaras.

3. Stay Hydrated: Given that the festival falls in the hot month of Jyestha, it's essential to stay hydrated. You'll find plenty of stalls offering water and sherbet, especially near the temples.

4. Dress Comfortably: Wear light and comfortable clothing suitable for the warm weather and the large crowds.

Final Thoughts on Bada Mangal 2024

Bada Mangal is more than just a religious event; it is a celebration of faith, community, and the spirit of giving. In 2024, with four Bada Mangal dates lined up, the fervor and devotion will be at an all-time high in Lucknow. The city's unique tradition of offering free food and drinks to everyone, coupled with the vibrant celebrations at the key Hanuman temples, makes Bada Mangal a festival that embodies the essence of selfless service and devotion.

Whether you are a devotee looking to seek blessings or a visitor wanting to experience the rich cultural traditions of Lucknow, Bada Mangal 2024 offers an unparalleled spiritual and cultural experience. Make sure to visit the iconic Hanuman temples—Hanumant Dham, Hanuman Setu, and Purana Hanuman Mandir—to truly immerse yourself in the festivities and the spirit of this extraordinary festival. 

We hope this blog provides you with comprehensive information about Bada Mangal 2024 and assists you in celebrating this festival. Jai Hanuman!