The holy city of Ujjain has etched its name into the record books by organizing a mass community feast where over 50,000 devotees dined together in celebration of Hanuman Jayanti, setting a new world record for the largest number of people eating simultaneously at a single religious gathering.
The grand event was held near the banks of the Shipra River, in the spiritual heartland of Ujjain, where rows of saffron-clad devotees sat together in harmony to mark the auspicious birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman, a revered symbol of strength, devotion, and service in Hindu mythology.
Organized by local spiritual groups in collaboration with the district administration and volunteers, the feast was conducted with clockwork precision. Food was prepared in massive kitchens and served with love by more than 2,000 volunteers, ensuring every participant was fed hot, freshly cooked prasad (sacred food).
“We wanted to celebrate Hanuman Jayanti in a way that truly reflected the spirit of seva (service) and unity. This gathering is not just about numbers — it’s about devotion and togetherness,” said Acharya Rajesh Maharaj, one of the lead organizers of the event.
Officials from the Guinness World Records were present to monitor and verify the attempt. After thorough documentation, they officially declared Ujjain’s event a new world record for the largest community meal held in a single location.
The district collector, Ashish Singh, expressed pride in the city’s achievement. “This event showcases not just the organizational capability of our people but also the deep spiritual and cultural roots of Ujjain. It’s a moment of pride for all of Madhya Pradesh.”
The record-breaking celebration also included devotional chanting, bhajans (devotional songs), and a grand aarti (prayer ceremony), making it a spiritually charged atmosphere that many described as “once in a lifetime.”
As the sun set on Hanuman Jayanti, the city stood united — not just in celebration of a deity, but in the power of faith, discipline, and community.