Mangalvar — Tuesday — is the most sacred day of the week for devotees of Lord Hanuman. Observing the Mangalvar Vrat is one of the most widely followed fasts in Hinduism.
Why Tuesday?
Lord Hanuman was born on a Tuesday. Tuesday is also governed by Mangal (Mars), and Hanuman shares Mars’s qualities of energy, courage, and fearless action. Worshipping Hanuman on Tuesdays pacifies malefic Mars in the horoscope and removes its negative effects.
Vrat Katha
A merchant once fell into great poverty. His wife suggested he observe the Mangalvar Vrat with devotion. He began visiting the Hanuman temple every Tuesday, offering sindoor and gur-chana, reciting the Chalisa, and eating only once after sunset.
After 11 Tuesdays, his fortune changed dramatically. His business revived, his family found peace, and all difficulties resolved. He continued the vrat for life — and this is how the Mangalvar Vrat katha spread across India.
Fasting Rules
- Wake before sunrise, bathe, and wear clean clothes (orange, red, or yellow preferred)
- Visit a Hanuman temple or perform puja at home
- Eat only once, after sunset, preferably satvik food (no onion, garlic, non-veg, alcohol)
- Recite Hanuman Chalisa at least once; 5 or 7 times is more auspicious
- The fast is observed for 11 consecutive Tuesdays for a specific wish, or lifelong for general blessings
Benefits
- Pacification of Mangal Dosha in the birth chart
- Removal of fear, obstacles, and enemies
- Protection of the home and family
- Fulfilment of sincere prayers within 11 weeks
- Health, strength, and courage
Related Pages
- Hanuman Chalisa — recite during the vrat
- Hanuman Puja Vidhi — how to perform puja at home
- Hanuman Aarti
- Aarti & Chalisa — all Hanuman prayers