Swayam Prakat Kapasi Hanuman Temple is located in Kapasi village (Kapasi Gam) in Olpad Taluka, Surat District, Gujarat. According to local belief, the origin of this sacred temple dates back to ancient times and is closely associated with the Ramayana period (Treta Yuga). As the presiding deity is believed to be Swayam Prakat (self-manifested), the sanctity and spiritual significance of the temple are considered beyond human timelines and historical measurement.
The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Hanuman, worshipped here in a Swayam Prakat form. The sacred idol is believed to have naturally emerged from the earth and was not carved or installed by human hands. Lord Hanuman is worshipped here as the protector of devotees, remover of fear, giver of strength, and eternal servant of Lord Rama.
The presence of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana in worship reflects Hanuman’s unbroken devotion to Rama and his role as the guardian of dharma.
The temple follows a simple rural Gujarati architectural style, focusing more on devotion than ornamentation. The sanctum is built around the sacred self-manifested idol. The temple premises are open and peaceful, allowing devotees to sit, chant prayers, and meditate.
At the entrance, statues representing the values “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” are seen, symbolizing moral discipline and spiritual awareness.
According to local tradition, after the completion of the Ramayana and Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, Hanuman chose to remain on earth to protect selected sacred regions. Kapasi village is believed to be one such place where Hanuman stayed to guard the land and its people.
Over generations, the memory of Hanuman’s presence continued through oral traditions. When a stone form of Hanuman appeared naturally from the earth, the place was recognized as divine, leading to the formation of the temple at this sacred spot.
The Sthalapurana of Kapasi Hanuman Temple states that Lord Hanuman resided in this region after the Ramayana era, protecting sages, villagers, and travellers. The name Kapasi is believed to have come from “Kapi” (Hanuman) and “Vasa” (residence), meaning the place where Hanuman lived.
As time passed, Hanuman’s divine presence sanctified the land. One day, villagers discovered a stone form naturally emerging from the soil, revealing the divine form of Lord Hanuman. This event was recognized as a Swayam Prakat manifestation, confirming Hanuman’s continued presence on earth.
It is believed that Hanuman manifested here to remain eternally vigilant, guarding devotees and blessing them with courage, protection, and inner strength. Devotees believe that sincere prayers offered here remove fear, protect from negative forces, and fulfil righteous wishes.
The temple is especially vibrant during Hanuman Jayanti, which is the main festival celebrated with special pujas, chanting of Hanuman Chalisa, and devotional songs. Rama Navami is also observed with prayers, as Lord Hanuman is the greatest devotee of Lord Rama. In addition, Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered very auspicious, and many devotees visit the temple on these days to offer prayers, sindoor, flowers, and sweets.
