Bada Mangal is not just a festival—it's a deeply rooted tradition that fills the city of Lucknow with devotion, unity, and joy. In 2025, Bada Mangal will begin on Tuesday, May 13, and continue every Tuesday until Tuesday, June 10. These five Tuesdays are set to be filled with vibrant rituals, bhajan-kirtans, and free community feasts (bhandaras) across the city.
What is Bada Mangal?
Bada Mangal is a unique festival dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and it is celebrated only in Lucknow and nearby regions of Uttar Pradesh. Unlike the traditional Hanuman Jayanti, Bada Mangal is observed on every Tuesday in the month of Jyeshtha (May–June). The festival has both spiritual and social significance, uniting people from all walks of life in devotion and service.
Bada Mangal 2025 Dates
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1st Bada Mangal – Tuesday, May 13, 2025
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2nd Bada Mangal – Tuesday, May 20, 2025
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3rd Bada Mangal – Tuesday, May 27, 2025
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4th Bada Mangal – Tuesday, June 3, 2025
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5th Bada Mangal – Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Rituals and Celebrations
During Bada Mangal, devotees flock to Hanuman temples early in the morning to offer prayers. Special pujas, sankirtans, and aarti ceremonies are organized throughout the day. However, the most iconic aspect of Bada Mangal is the bhandaras (community feasts) that are arranged across the city.
These feasts serve thousands of people and reflect the spirit of seva (service) and community bonding. It’s common to see roads and intersections filled with tents where volunteers distribute prasad, puri-sabzi, sweets, and cold drinks to all passersby.
Famous Hanuman Temples in Lucknow to Visit
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Hanuman Setu Mandir (near Lucknow University)
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Aliganj Hanuman Mandir (Old & New)
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Aminabad Hanuman Mandir
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Kaka Hanuman Mandir
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Budheswar Mandir
These temples become epicenters of devotion and are beautifully decorated during Bada Mangal.
The Spirit of Bada Mangal
What makes Bada Mangal special is its inclusive nature—people from different religions, castes, and backgrounds participate in the celebrations, reflecting Lucknow’s Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb (composite culture). Whether it's a small neighborhood stall or a large-scale bhandara by a business group, the intention remains the same: devotion and community service.
Tips for Enjoying Bada Mangal
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Start your day early to attend temple aartis.
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Volunteer at or sponsor a bhandara.
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Carry water and stay hydrated—it can get hot in May–June.
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If you're visiting Lucknow during this time, be prepared for traffic but enjoy the festive street scenes.
Conclusion
Bada Mangal is not just a religious event—it's a celebration of compassion, unity, and shared joy. Whether you're a devotee or a visitor, experiencing Bada Mangal in Lucknow is truly a memorable experience. Mark your calendars for May 13 to June 10, 2025, and be a part of this beautiful tradition that makes Lucknow’s summers spiritually rich and socially vibrant.
