Surat, April 2 — The 21st Shri Hanuman Jayanti was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm at the Shri Salasar Balaji Temple in Jalwant Township on April 1 and 2, 2026. This two-day festival became a unique confluence of service, culture, and faith, attracting thousands of devotees who participated to gain religious benefits.
Vinod Rathi, the committee's patron, and president Tikam Asawa provided details, stating that the festival traditionally commenced with cow service. On this occasion, the committee donated ₹1.55 lakh to support the cow sanctuary at Pathmeda Goshala. The program began on April 1 with a melodious recitation of Sundarkand by the Shri Salasar Women's Organization. In the evening, the divine unbroken flame, fifty-six offerings, and the decoration of Baba's divine court moved the devotees emotionally. During the bhajan evening, renowned singer Ajit Dadhich enriched the atmosphere with devotional songs.
According to chief coordinator Damodar Goud, a grand procession started from Shri Kashtbhanjan Hanuman Temple in Trikam Nagar at 7:15 AM on April 2, making its way to the Shri Salasar Balaji Temple through various routes. Participants in the procession, dressed in special attire, enthusiastically joined in along with bullock carts and bands.
Youth organization president Vasu Asawa and organization in-charge Ratan Prajapat reported that approximately 1,000 to 1,500 women, men, and children participated in the procession, clearly showcasing the essence of Sanatan culture.
As per Bhandara in-charge Ramanuj Asawa, devotees offered a special meal to Shri Balaji Maharaj at 10:15 AM on April 2, with 3,000 to 4,000 devotees in attendance. Following this, a grand aarti was held at 7:15 PM, after which a massive community feast (bhandara) was organized, attended by around 15,000 to 20,000 devotees. During the event, priests Sharad Mishra and Sushil Mishra provided special services.
Under the guidance of managing trustee Jaysukh Bhai Hirpara, the entire event was made grand and successful. Secretary and media in-charge Mangal Vaishnav mentioned that over 200 dedicated workers from the Jalwant Friends Association, youth organization, and women's organization worked tirelessly to ensure the festival's success. They expressed gratitude to all workers, members, and devotees while wishing for the nation's progress and world peace. This event emerged not only as a symbol of religious faith but also as a representation of social service and cultural awareness.
