Why Lord Hanuman Applies Sindoor – The Story Behind the Tradition

In Hinduism, sindoor (vermilion) symbolizes marital bliss and devotion. Every married woman applies sindoor in the parting of her hair as a mark of her husband’s long life and love. Sindoor also holds a sacred place in Hindu rituals and worship. Many deities, including Lord Ganesha, Bhairava, and Lord Hanuman, are offered sindoor during prayers. Covering Hanuman Ji’s idol with sindoor has deep spiritual meaning, supported by a touching story mentioned in Tulsidas Ji’s Ramcharitmanas.

The Divine Story from Ramcharitmanas

After Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshman, one day Hanuman Ji visited Mata Sita’s chamber. He noticed her applying a red substance on the parting of her hair. Out of curiosity, Hanuman Ji asked, “Mother, what are you applying in your hairline?”

Mata Sita smiled and replied, “This is sindoor, a symbol of a married woman’s devotion. By applying it, I ensure Lord Rama’s long life and receive his love and protection.”

Hearing this, Hanuman Ji felt deeply moved. He thought, “If a small amount of sindoor can grant my Lord a long life and happiness, then covering my entire body with sindoor will bring him even more joy and longevity.”

With this thought, Hanuman Ji covered his entire body with sindoor and entered Lord Rama’s court.

When Lord Rama saw Hanuman Ji completely smeared in red sindoor, he was astonished and asked, “Hanuman, why have you covered yourself like this?”

Hanuman Ji humbly replied, “My Lord, I learned from Mata Sita that sindoor ensures your long life and love. So I applied it all over my body to strengthen your well-being and to receive your divine affection.”

Hearing this heartfelt explanation, Lord Rama became overwhelmed with emotion. He embraced Hanuman Ji lovingly and declared that sindoor would always remain dear to Hanuman. Since then, devotees offer sindoor to Lord Hanuman to gain his blessings and divine protection.

Scientific and Symbolic Significance of sindoor

Apart from its spiritual importance, applying sindoor on Hanuman Ji’s idol has scientific and practical benefits. The vermilion coating preserves the idol and prevents damage or erosion over time. It also enhances the idol’s appearance, making Hanuman Ji’s form bright and clearly visible to devotees. This helps worshippers focus better during meditation and deepens their faith and devotion.

Thus, both scientifically and spiritually, sindoor holds immense significance in Hanuman worship — representing devotion, protection, strength, and eternal love for Lord Rama.