Situated near Khara village along National Highway 27 connecting Abu Road and Palanpur in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan, the Hanuman Tekri temple serves as a prominent spiritual landmark for thousands of devotees. Perched amid the picturesque landscape of the Aravalli mountain range, this sacred shrine houses a distinctive and captivating four-foot-tall idol depicting Lord Hanuman in his child form. Reaching the sanctum sanctorum requires pilgrims to ascend approximately 150 stone steps up the hill. The serene natural setting, gentle mountain breeze, and spiritual ambience are widely regarded by visitors as an effective remedy against everyday mental fatigue and negative energy.
The Tradition of Five Consecutive Tuesday Fasts
Deep-seated spiritual beliefs draw people from nearby villages as well as distant regions to this hilltop sanctuary. A widespread conviction among devotees holds that observing a dedicated fast for five consecutive Tuesdays while paying homage at the temple ensures the fulfillment of one's deepest wishes and prayers. Consequently, Tuesdays witness a substantial influx of worshippers climbing the steps with offerings. Another defining highlight of the pilgrimage is the distribution of traditional lapsi prasad, prepared directly on the temple premises. Devotees receive and consume this wholesome sweet preparation with immense reverence, considering it an integral part of the spiritual experience.
Ascetic Journey of Mahant Kasturnath Maharaj
The transformation of this once-desolate spot into a revered shrine is attributed to the extraordinary dedication of Mahant Yogi Kasturi Nath Maharaj. According to temple administrator Premnath Maharaj, the foundation of this sacred place dates back around seven decades. At that time, Kasturnath Maharaj arrived at this rugged, jungle-covered hill as an adolescent aged roughly 14 to 15 years. Recognizing the sanctity of the location, he began worshipping an idol of Lord Hanuman nestled within a natural rock formation on the hilltop.
Later in life, he pursued professional employment with Indian Railways. Upon completing his tenure and retiring from government service, he renounced worldly life, embraced asceticism, and returned to the quiet hills of Sirohi. He dedicated the rest of his days to rigorous penance and devotion in this very setting. It was under his direct spiritual guidance that the present child-form idol of the deity was formally consecrated. In recognition of his foundational contribution and life of penance, a statue of Mahant Kasturnath Maharaj stands within the temple complex, where pilgrims regularly pay their respects.
Annual Festivities and Cross-Border Pilgrimage
The temple comes alive on a grand scale during the annual festival celebrated on Hanuman Jayanti. During this festive window, the entire complex is adorned with vibrant floral arrangements and decorative lighting. The celebration draws massive crowds not only from across Sirohi and southern Rajasthan, but also from neighboring Gujarat, attracting families, wandering ascetics, and spiritual seekers alike.
Major events such as the eve of the annual fair and the occasion of Guru Purnima feature elaborate evening bhajan sessions. Acclaimed devotional vocalists travel from various regions to perform traditional hymns, transforming the hill into an energetic hub of community worship. The abundance of mature trees and preserved greenery surrounding the temple complex continues to provide visitors with a profound sense of inner calm and natural tranquility.
