Exploring Sri Bhoo Varaha Swamy Temple

a black and white image of Varaswamy Temple facade with water view

A Hindu-Vaishnavite temple known as Sri Varaswamy Temple or Bhoo Varahaswamy Temple is situated in the hill town of Tirumala in Tirupati. The temple is devoted to Lord Varaha - Vishnu's third incarnation in Dasavatharam. The temple lies on Swami Pushkarini's northern banks.
 

The Tirumala yatra is deemed complete when pilgrims take a bath in the river Swami Pushkarini, perform pooja and make offerings in the Tirumala Kshetra tradition, later the followers should visit Tirupati Balaji Temple. Varaswamy Temple is older than the Venkateswara Temple.

History


As per the myth after rescuing Earth from Hiranyaksha, Lord Varaha stayed on this mountain on the northern bank of Swami Pushkarini. As a result, Tirumala Hills is known as Adivarahakshetra. At the beginning of the Kaliyuga, Lord Varaha granted Lord Venkateswara's request and handed him the territory. Lord Venkateswara gave the gift of the first darshan and the first naivedyam to Sri Varahaswami, a privilege given by the Lord as a thankful gesture.

As mentioned in the book of Brahma Purana, before visiting the Sri Venkateswara Temple, pilgrims should first offer naivedyam to Sri Adi Varaha Swami. Three different ways are used to worship the Varaha Avatara, according to the Atri Samhita (Samurtarchanadhikara) - Adi Varaha, Pralaya Varaha and Yajna Varaha.

a far out image of many deities carved on the temple roof with blue sky in the background
a close up image as seen from below of Stone columns with carvings

Vallabha Pillar

To save Bhu Devi from the demon Hiranyaksha, Lord Vishnu took on the form of a boar. Lord Venkateswara stayed on this hill with Bhuvaraha Swami’s permission. The Vallabha pillar shows the idol Sri Varaha Swami embracing Bhu Devi in his arms while standing on one leg.
 

Festivals at the Tirumala Varaha Swamy Temple

Vaikanasa Agama-based rites are performed every day. The Varahswamy Temple's Mukha mandapa will host the Chakrasnanam celebration during the annual Brahmotsavams, Vaikunta Dwadasi and Rathasapthami festivals. Additionally, Varaha Jayanti is honoured.

Sri Bhoo Varaha Swamy Temple is a 10 to 15 minute drive from the Main Temple. According to legend, one should first seek the darshan of Varaha Swamy before seeking the darshan of Lord Venkateswara. Depending on the throng - the darshan may last anywhere from 30 minutes to more than an hour. The weather is colder as the temple is on a hill, we advise wearing warm clothing on your visit. Disclaimer: Only traditional attire is permitted inside, no western clothing.

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