Vidushi Gaur/ Lucknow

The Bada Mangal season commenced with fervour in Lucknow on Tuesday, as thousands of devotees gathered at Hanuman temples across the city to offer prayers, marking the first Tuesday of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. Despite the scorching summer sun, the faithful thronged temples from Aliganj to Hazratganj and Aminabad to University Road, participating in prayers and community feasts known as bhandaras.

Bada Mangal, also known as Bade Mangalvar, is more than a religious event; it’s a symbol of communal unity deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Lucknow. The festival’s origin is traced back to Janab-e-Alia, the second wife of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah of Oudh, who built the iconic Hanuman temple in Aliganj following a divine vision. The temple has since become the focal point of the city's celebrations and a testament to interfaith harmony.

Every year, the Tuesdays of Jyeshtha witness massive community gatherings, with over 400 bhandaras being organised citywide. These feasts are prepared in massive quantities and distributed freely to all, regardless of faith or background. “This temple is a testament to the enduring legacy of Aliya Begum... welcoming devotees from diverse religious backgrounds,” said astrologer Trilokinath Singh, who also organises bhandaras near the Aliganj temple.

Lucknow's unique tradition sees Muslim residents actively participating in the festival by setting up stalls, distributing snacks and drinks, and preparing prasad like puri, halwa, and boondi alongside their Hindu neighbours. “This festival is about love and service,” said Aslam Khan, a local vendor distributing refreshments outside the Aliganj temple. “We may pray differently, but our hearts beat together for Lucknow.”

The city’s devotion was echoed online by political leaders. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his greetings on X, wishing health and devotion for all. Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak also shared their wishes, praying for courage and wisdom for the people of the state.

मनोजवं मारुततुल्यवेगं जितेन्द्रियं बुद्धिमतां वरिष्ठम्।
वातात्मजं वानरयूथमुख्यं श्रीरामदूतं शरणं प्रपद्ये।।

ज्येष्ठ माह के प्रथम मंगलवार 'बड़ा मंगल' की सभी को हार्दिक बधाई व मंगलमय शुभकामनाएं!

संकटमोचक, अतुलित बल के स्वामी केसरीनंदन सभी को साहस, भक्ति और आरोग्यता का आशीर्वाद… pic.twitter.com/enTt3503jH

— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) May 13, 2025

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The celebrations, which continue for five consecutive Tuesdays this year, have also embraced modern elements such as eco-friendly practices and mental health support. With temples adorned in flowers and lights, and volunteers from all walks of life coming together, Bada Mangal remains a vibrant symbol of Lucknow’s spiritual devotion and communal harmony.