Varahaswamy Temple, Tirumala


Sri Varahaswamy Temple or Bhu Varahaswamy Temple is a Hindu-Vaishnavite temple situated at hill town of Tirumala in Tirupati, Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh state, India. The Temple is dedicated to the god Varaha, Vishnu's third avatar. The temple is situated on the northern premises of Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala, on north west corner of Swami Pushkarini. This temple is believed to be older than the Venkateswara Shrine.

Religious significance

As per legend, after saving the Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha, Vishnu's boar avatar Varaha stayed on this hill on the northern bank of Swami Pushkarini. Hence Tirumala Hills is also referred to as Adivarahakshetra. In the beginning of the present aeon Kaliyuga, Varaha donated land to another form of Vishnu - Venkateswara on his request. As a gratitude, Venkateswara offered first bell, puja and Naivedyam to Varaha before they were offered to him. This is being followed as a tradition even today.
Devotees are prescribed to have darshan of Varaha before Venkateswara. It is believed that pilgrimage to Tirupati will not be complete without having darshan of Varaha.

History

This temple was renovated by Pedda Tirumalacharya in the year 1535 AD.

Administration

The temple is part of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple and is being administered by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.

Architecture

The rock temple is situated in the Northern bank of Swami Pushkarini and is accessed from North Mada street of Venkateswara Temple.

Poojas and Festivals

Daily rituals are held as per Vaikanasa Agama. Chakrasnanam event during Annual brahmotsavams, Vaikunta Dwadasi, Rathasapthami will be held in the mukha mandapa of Varahswamy Temple. Varaha Jayanti is also celebrated.