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Why is Hanuman Worshipped on Tuesdays and Saturdays?

Written and reviewed by The Kriya Yogi · Updated 28 September 2026

If you visit a Hanuman temple on a Tuesday or Saturday, you will find it crowded with devotees. While every day is a good day for prayer, these two days hold special astrological and mythological significance. Understanding these connections can help you align your personal practice with these traditional cycles of energy.

The short answers

  • Tuesday is associated with the planet Mars (Mangal), symbolizing strength and war.
  • Saturday is associated with the planet Saturn (Shani), symbolizing discipline and karma.
  • Hanuman is said to protect his devotees from the negative effects of both these planets.
  • Mythology tells of a deal between Hanuman and Shani Dev (the deity of Saturn).

Tuesday: The Day of Mars

In Vedic astrology, Tuesday is ruled by Mangal (Mars). Mars represents energy, courage, and physical prowess, but also anger and conflict. Hanuman, as the 'Mahaveer' (Great Hero), is the master of these Martian qualities. Worshipping him on Tuesday helps to channel one's aggressive energy into constructive service and provides the courage to face life's battles. It is also believed that Hanuman was born on a Tuesday.

Saturday: The Protection from Saturn

Saturday is ruled by Shani (Saturn), the planet of karma and life lessons. Saturn's influence is often feared because it brings delays, hardships, and discipline. According to legend, during the burning of Lanka, Hanuman rescued Shani Dev from Ravana's prison. In gratitude, Shani Dev promised that he would never trouble those who were true devotees of Hanuman. Therefore, people worship Hanuman on Saturdays to mitigate the 'Shani Dosha' or the difficult periods of Saturn's transit (like Saade Saati).

Traditional Practices for These Days

  • Applying Sindoor: Many men apply a small dot of orange vermilion from Hanuman's feet to their forehead.
  • Offering Oil: Offering mustard oil or sesame oil is common, especially on Saturdays.
  • Reading the Sundara Kanda: This section of the Ramayana is often recited in full on these days.
  • Abstinence: Many devotees abstain from meat and alcohol on these days as a mark of respect and discipline.

Approaching it with care

  1. Identify your intention

    Are you seeking courage (Tuesday) or relief from obstacles (Saturday)?

  2. Offer a garland of betel leaves

    This is a traditional offering believed to please Hanuman.

  3. Chant the Chalisa 11 times

    Repeating the prayer multiple times on these days is a common vow (Vrata).

Cautions worth reading

  • Do not view these practices as mere 'luck' rituals; they are meant to build internal discipline.
  • Respect the traditional observances of the temple you visit.

What scholars and evidence say

Astrological traditions (Jyotish) and Puranic legends (like the interaction between Hanuman and Shani) form the basis of these practices.

Questions people ask

+ Which day is more important for Hanuman?
Both are significant, but Tuesday is often associated with his birth and general strength, while Saturday is specifically for protection from Saturn.
+ Why is oil offered on Saturdays?
Legend says that when Hanuman was hit by Shani, the oil helped soothe his wounds, so he likes it when devotees offer oil to him or to Shani on his behalf.
+ Do I have to go to a temple?
No, you can perform a simple puja or chant at home if you cannot reach a temple.

Sources

  • Vedic Astrology (Jyotish) texts
  • Folklore of the Ramayana

These are living traditions, best approached with a teacher or community where possible. Nothing here is medical advice; check with a clinician before starting a new movement or meditation practice if you have a health condition.