A Spiritual Encounter: Visiting the Sleeping Hanuman Temple
By Lokanath Mishra
On 28th March 2025, I had the privilege of visiting the revered Bhadra Maruti Temple, also known as the Sleeping Hanuman Temple, located in the historic city of Ellora. As I approached the temple, I could feel a sense of serenity and tranquility that seemed to envelop the entire area.
The temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is one of the three temples in India where the deity is depicted in a reclining or sleeping posture. According to legend, Lord Hanuman was so mesmerized by the devotional songs sung by King Bhadrasena, a noble ruler and ardent devotee of Lord Rama, that he descended upon the spot and took a reclining posture, known as ‘Bhava-Samadhi’.
As I entered the temple, I was struck by the beautiful architecture and the serene ambiance that pervaded the air. The interior of the temple, made of marble, was adorned with intricate floral motifs and hymns that seemed to reverberate with the divine energy of Lord Hanuman.
The figurine of Lord Hanuman, covered with an orange cloth and decorated with garlands, seemed to radiate a sense of peace and tranquility. I felt a deep sense of connection to the divine as I stood before the deity, offering my prayers and respects.
As I learned more about the temple’s history and significance, I realized that this sacred site was not just a place of worship, but a testament to the transformative power of devotion and faith. The temple’s beauty and serenity seemed to embody the very essence of Lord Hanuman’s unwavering dedication to Lord Rama.
As I departed the temple, I felt grateful for the experience, knowing that I had been in the presence of something truly sacred. The Sleeping Hanuman Temple had left an indelible mark on my soul, reminding me of the importance of devotion, faith, and the pursuit of spiritual growth.
The Bhadra Maruti Temple, located in Khuldabad near Aurangabad, has a rich history dating back to medieval times. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is one of the only three temples in India where the idol of the presiding deity is seen in the Bhav Samadhi or the sleeping posture .
According to legend, the temple’s history is associated with King Bhadrasen, the ruler of Khuldabad, who was a devout devotee of Lord Ram. Lord Hanuman appeared before him and, enchanted by his songs, assumed the sleeping posture at the king’s request, blessing him forever .
The temple has endured a tumultuous past, facing destruction and restoration throughout the centuries. In medieval times, when the region was won by the Mughals, the temple was destroyed, but the idol of Lord Hanuman was saved and hidden away for many years ยน. In the 1960s, a movement was started to relocate the idol to its original location, and a new temple was built using marble stones .
Today, the Bhadra Maruti Temple is a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from all over India, especially on Saturdays during the month of “Sharavan” as per the Marathi calendar . The temple is also famous for its unique architecture, which blends North Indian and South Indian styles, and its peaceful ambiance, which creates a sense of calmness and serenity .
