PANKI PANCHMUKHI HANUMAN MANDIR HISTORY
IN BRIEF
Panki Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is about 400 years old. It was founded by Mahant Sri Sri 1008 Purushottam Dasji Maharaj before Kanpur city was established.
According to legend, Mahantji saw a rock with an image of Bajrang Bali on it while returning from Chitrakoot. He decided to build a temple there, now known as Panki Temple.
A special feature of this temple is that Lord Hanuman’s face changes three times a day. In the morning, his face looks like a child’s (Bala Hanuman). At noon, it looks like a young man’s (Brahmachari). In the evening, it appears as an older, wise man (Mahapurush).
This unique phenomenon attracts many devotees from across the country to the temple.
IN LONG
Panki Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, holds great historical and spiritual significance. It is believed to be around 400 years old and was founded by Mahant Sri Sri 1008 Purushottam Dasji Maharaj. This establishment predates the formation of Kanpur city, adding to its historical importance.
The origin story of the temple is rooted in legend. According to the tale, Mahantji was returning from Chitrakoot when he encountered a remarkable rock. This rock bore the image of Bajrang Bali, another name for Lord Hanuman. Deeply moved by this divine sight, Mahantji decided to build a temple at that very spot. This temple is now renowned as the Panki Hanuman Temple.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Panki Hanuman Temple is the changing appearance of Lord Hanuman’s face throughout the day. Devotees observe this unique phenomenon where the deity’s face undergoes three distinct transformations. In the early morning, with the first light of the day, Lord Hanuman’s face appears as Bala Hanuman, depicting the youthful and innocent features of a child. As the day progresses and reaches noon, the face transforms into that of a youth, known as Brahmachari Hanuman, symbolizing energy, vigor, and celibacy. By evening, the face of Lord Hanuman changes once again to resemble a Mahapurush, exuding wisdom, maturity, and radiance.
This extraordinary feature is believed to be a divine gift and adds to the temple’s allure. It draws numerous devotees and pilgrims from all over the country, eager to witness the miraculous changes and seek blessings. The Panki Hanuman Temple thus not only serves as a place of worship but also as a center of fascination and spiritual reflection.
The temple’s rich history, combined with the unique daily transformations of Lord Hanuman’s appearance, makes it a prominent religious site. Devotees come not only to pray but also to experience the divine presence and witness the miraculous changes that set this temple apart from others. The Panki Hanuman Temple continues to be a beacon of faith, attracting visitors and devotees year-round, each seeking a glimpse of the celestial wonders it offers.