Varahaswamy Temple

Sri Varahaswamy Temple

The Sri Varahaswamy Temple, also recognized as the Bhu Varahaswamy Temple, is a significant Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Varaha, the boar avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is located in the sacred hill town of Tirumala, within Tirupati district in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Situated to the north of the prominent Venkateswara Temple and on the north-west corner of Swami Pushkarini, this temple is historically considered to be older than the Venkateswara shrine.

Religious Significance and Rituals

Local Hindu legends recount that after defeating the asura Hiranyaksha and saving the earth, Lord Varaha resided on this hill, on the northern bank of the Swami Pushkarini. Consequently, the Tirumala Hills are also referred to as Adi Varaha Kshetra. A unique tradition, stemming from the beginning of the Kali Yuga, dictates that Lord Varaha donated land to Lord Venkateswara. In gratitude, Lord Venkateswara established a practice where the first bell, puja, and food offerings are made to Lord Varaha before being offered to himself. This practice continues to this day, emphasizing the paramount importance of Varaha.

Devotees are traditionally advised to have 'darshana' (sight) of Lord Varaha before proceeding to see Lord Venkateswara. It is widely believed that a pilgrimage to Tirumala is not considered complete without paying respects to Lord Varaha. Daily rituals are performed at the temple in accordance with the Vaikhanasa Agama. Key annual events such as the Chakrasnanam during the Brahmotsavams, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, and Rathasaptami are conducted in the mukha mandapa of the Varahaswamy Temple. The temple also celebrates Varaha Jayanti.

History and Administration

The temple underwent renovation in the year 1535 CE under the patronage of Pedda Tirumalacharya. Currently, the Varahaswamy Temple is administered by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), as part of the larger Venkateswara Temple complex.