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This historic and unprecedented move has captivated the attention of devotees and observers across the religious and spiritual landscape nationwide. Traditionally, the Mahant of Hanuman Garhi has remained within the confines of the temple, adhering to a longstanding religious protocol that has endured for generations.
What is the tradition and why was it so strict?
Since the establishment of Hanuman Garhi in the 18th century, its chief priest, known as the ‘gaddi nasheen’, has been bound by a unique rule never to leave the temple’s 52-bigha premises for life. The rulebook of Hanuman Garhi, called its ‘constitution’, states that the gaddi nasheen is both the representative and servant of Hanuman, the guardian deity of Ayodhya and must remain at his post. This tradition was so strictly enforced that even in legal matters, courts would come to the temple to record the priest’s statement, rather than summon him outside.
Hanuman Garhi’s roots go deep. Built in the 10th century and later fortified and endowed by the Nawab of Awadh in the 18th century, the temple sits at Ayodhya’s highest point. Local belief holds that after Lord Ram departed the earth, he entrusted his kingdom to Hanuman, who watches over Ayodhya from Hanuman Garhi. For generations, Ayodhya’s people have considered Hanuman their guardian and the gaddi nasheen his living representative.
Why is the rule being broken now?
The catalyst for this historic change is deeply personal and spiritual. For several months, Mahant Prem Das has reportedly experienced dreams in which Lord Hanuman himself commanded him to visit the Ram temple. Taking this as a divine directive, Prem Das requested permission from the Nirvani Akhara, the apex body governing Hanuman Garhi. On April 21, after deliberation, the 400-member panchayat unanimously agreed to allow this unprecedented visit, considering the “call is by Lord Hanuman himself”, Indian Express quoted a temple priest in its report.
The grand procession
The breaking of tradition will be marked by a spectacle befitting Ayodhya’s spiritual heritage. On Akshaya Tritiya, April 30, Mahant Prem Das will leave Hanuman Garhi via the VIP gate, leading a royal procession that will include elephants, horses, camels, Naga sadhus, devotees and local traders. The journey will begin at dawn with a ceremonial bath in the Saryu River, after which the procession will wind through the city, with flower showers at 40 designated points and even helicopters dropping petals from above.
The mahant will carry the sacred Hanuman Chinnah – a flag bearing Hanuman’s image, traditionally sent in his stead for major rituals – and 56 types of offerings for Lord Ram. Due to security protocols at the Ram temple, the chariot will stop short and Mahant Prem Das will enter the temple in a four-wheeler from Gate 3.
Why does this matter?
This event is not just a religious milestone but also carries cultural and political significance. Traditionally, Hanuman Garhi has maintained a distance from the Ram Temple Movement. Political leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have often chosen to visit Hanuman Garhi rather than the Ram Janmabhoomi site, underscoring its independent stature in Ayodhya’s religious landscape. The mahant’s visit is expected to be closely watched in political circles as well.
Hanuman Garhi’s constitution, dating back more than 200 years, was crafted to ensure the temple’s spiritual integrity and independence. Until now, the only exception to the rule was when a gaddi nasheen left the temple for medical treatment. This week, however, the tradition will bend not for convenience, but in response to what the priest and his followers believe is a direct command from the deity himself.
