INDIA: Kothali Bujrug is a small village with a big history in the Akola district of Maharashtra. Recently, photos and videos of a Hanuman Jayanti feast went viral on social media, showing a group of gray langurs (also known as Hanuman monkeys) enjoying a treat served by Ramdas Maharaj Shinde, the head priest of the Mungsaji Maharaj Ashram in the Barshi Takli Tehsil. The langurs ate peacefully from stainless steel plates and didn’t disturb the humans who were feasting nearby.
According to Maharaj Shinde, this is a routine event at the ashram, where langurs are fed their natural food (nuts, fruits, etc.) while humans enjoy other delicacies. Maharaj Shinde is the caretaker of the ashram, where Lord Hanuman and Saint Mungsaji Maharaj are worshipped. Mungsaji Maharaj has a large following in Vidarbha.
Maharaj Shinde stated that the langurs never obstructed their work or disturbed the Hanuman Jayanti mass feast held for humans. They are used to humans and come from the adjacent Katepurna wildlife sanctuary. The langurs have become accustomed to humans, and people have shared photos and videos of them enjoying the feast on social media.
While some have called this a miracle, Maharaj Shinde explained that over the years, they have befriended the langurs, who have learned to live with humans. The ashram feeds them all year round, especially during harsh summers when they find it difficult to get food naturally.
Maharaj Shinde also sat alongside the langurs and enjoyed the feast without being attacked. Veterinarian Dr Sudesh Mandpe stated that monkeys are social animals and do not create problems for others if they are served adequate food. Dr Mandpe further explained that food was served to each langur on a separate plate, so there was no question of a fight.
In conclusion, pictures of langurs eating with Lord Hanuman’s followers on Hanuman Jayanti went viral on social media right away, even though it’s a normal thing at the Mungsaji Maharaj Ashram.
Also, this event can be seen as an example of inclusivity in Indian culture, as it demonstrates the respect and care given to all creatures, regardless of their species, by providing them with their natural food and treating them as part of the community.
Also Read: Celebrating Monkey God, Hanuman’s Birthday During COVID-19 Era
