Harni Hanuman Temple is one of the oldest Hanuman temples in
Vadodara. It is also known as Bhidbhanjan Hanuman. The temple is located on the
northeastern part of Vadodara on the Harni road. Bhid means trouble and Bhanjan
means destroyer.
Legend has it that the region was ruled by a demon king
named Hirankashpu. Lord Hanuman took his Virat Roop and annihilated the demon. The
battle between the demon and Hanuman continued for fourteen days. On the
fourteenth day, Hanuman flung the demon king to the ground, pinned him down to
the ground with His right foot. With Lord Hanuman’s right foot on him, the evil
powers of Hirankashpu started melting down.
Bhagavan Sri Ram asked Hanuman to remain in that position,
for it was the only way to subdue the demon and break his power. As a symbol of
acceptance of the command, the murti of Hanuman worshipped in the temple is
seen with right hand over his head.
Bhagavan Sri Ram then told the saints and devotees gathered
there that Hanuman will shed his Vanara form and take human form in future here.
For this, devotees have to continue their pujas and prayers.
The murti of Hanuman in the temple is with mustache, beard
and other human facial features as per Bhagavan Sri Ram’s prophecy.
The Harni Hanuman Temple is unique as the roof of the temple
is dome-shaped.
The most important dates in the temple are Tuesdays and
Saturdays. The day before Diwali is considered highly auspicious here.