Varaha
वराह • Varāha
"Boar - The third avatar of Vishnu"
Category & Classification
Iconography
Attributes & Weapons
- Shankha (Conch) (Upper left) - Pranava Om
- Chakra (Discus) (Upper right) - Cosmic order
- Gada (Mace) (Lower left) - Strength
- Padma/Earth (Lower right) - Creation; Bhudevi
Distinctive Features
- Earth (Bhudevi) resting on tusks or seated on lap
Family & Relations
| Origin | Third avatar, appeared in Satya Yuga |
Mythology & Stories
Third avatar, appeared in Satya Yuga
Varaha represents the rescuer of those in distress. The avatar demonstrates Vishnu's role in maintaining cosmic order by rescuing Earth and destroying evil forces.
Rescuing Bhudevi
The demon Hiranyaksha, brother of Hiranyakashipu, received a boon of near-invincibility. He became arrogant and challenged even the gods. He dragged Earth (personified as goddess Bhudevi) to the depths of the cosmic ocean (Garbhodaka). The gods appealed to Vishnu. From Brahma's nostril emerged a tiny boar that grew to enormous size. Varaha dived into the cosmic waters, found Earth at the bottom, lifted her on his tusks, and emerged. On the way up, he encountered Hiranyaksha. After a fierce battle lasting a thousand years, Varaha killed the demon with his tusks and mace. Earth was restored to her proper place.
Source: Bhagavata Purana, Vishnu Purana
Marriage to Bhudevi
After rescuing her, Varaha married Bhudevi (Earth). Thus, Vishnu has two consorts: Lakshmi (goddess of prosperity) and Bhudevi (Earth goddess).
Source: Varaha Purana
Worship & Mantras
Mantras
Om Varahaya Namah
Om Namo Bhagavate Varaha-rupaya Bhur Bhuva Suvaha Pataye Svaha
Om Varaha Devaya Vidmahe Bhumi Palaya Dhimahi Tanno Varaha Prachodayat
Stotras & Hymns
Offerings
- Tulsi
- Flowers
- Fruits
- Payasam
Temples
Sri Varahaswami Temple
Tirumala (near Venkateswara temple), Andhra Pradesh
Ancient temple; tradition says Varaha granted land to Venkateswara
Bhu Varaha Temple
Srimushnam, Tamil Nadu
One of 108 Divya Desams; famous Varaha temple
Varaha Temple
Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh
Famous monolithic Varaha sculpture
Adi Varaha Perumal Temple
Mammalapuram, Tamil Nadu
Cave temple from Pallava period
Associated Festivals
Astrological Connection
Symbolism & Philosophy
Cosmic Role: Rescuer and protector; restorer of balance
Earth sinking in waters represents the soul drowning in ignorance/materialism. Varaha lifting Earth symbolizes the divine rescuing the devotee from worldly bondage.
