Hanumant Charitra Katha in Varanasi
A five day anushthaan of Hanumant Charitra Katha by Pujya Bhaishri with the recitation of 125,000 Hanuman Chalisa was organised in Varanasi from 15th to 20th October 2008 by Shri Kashi Agrawal Samaj – Banaras. Shri Ganeshji Gupta and Shrimati Abha Gupta were the hosts of this 5 day programme. In the mornings, the assembled devotees recited the Hanuman Chalisa, while in the afternoons Pujya Bhaishri narrated the divine story of Shri Hanuman and his incredible exploits performed in service of Shri Ram.
On 15th October, the programme commenced with the lighting of an auspicious lamp by Shri Shyammanoharlalji, the celebrated aacharya of pushti sampraday. The aacharya said, “Shri Hanuman Chalisa is the siddha mantra which helps us in achieving our desired wishes in Kaliyuga. Also, Shri Hanumanji is easily moved when his devotees call him and hence effectively addresses their grievances. We have all gathered here to worship him. By participating in this sacred programme we will be seeking his grace and blessings, especially since Shri Hanumant Charitra is being narrated by Pujya Bhaishri who is blessed with a pure heart filled with unlimited love and devotion. Therefore, Shri Hanumanji is bound to be propitiated and shower his grace and blessings upon us.”
Thereafter Pujya Bhaishri began narrating Shri Hanumant Charitra saying that reciting the Hanuman Chalisa blesses the devotee with health, knowledge, strength and intelligence. Pleased by our participation in this entire divine programme, Lord Shri Hanuman will ensure our emancipation.
A huge complex of temples was set up within the katha mandap accommodating Shri Ram Darbar, Shri Radha Krishna, Shri Kashi Vishwanathji, Amba Mataji and other Gods and Goddesses. Sacramental ritualistic worship was offered in these temples on all 5 days of the programme. Chappan bhog (56 dishes) was also offered to God.
Various cultural programmes were arranged in the evenings. On 15th October, Shri Munavvar Rana entertained the audience with his interesting sher-o- shayris. On 16th October, celebrated classical singer Shri Ganesh Mishra presented his devotional offerings in praise of Bhagavan Shri Kashi Vishwanathji. Shri Kunvar Bechain presented Shayris on 17th October. Shri Kamlesh Dwivedi entertained the audience with his fun filled poems on 18th October. On the final day, Shri Devashish Dey presented his vocal recitals.
