Varahi is one of the group of seven mothers, Matrikas and is a goddess in Hindu religion. She is believed to be one of the most powerful Matrikas who gives positivity and strength to all her devotees. She is a Shakti devata (feminine energy) who is the head of a Sow and is a Lord Vishnu avatar who is a Boar Avatar. The Varahi Amman temple in Tirchi is one of the several temples built to honour her. She is called Dandini in Gujarat and Rajasthan and Barahi in Nepal. She is venerated by both Shaivites as well as Vaishnavites as well as Buddhists. The Buddhist goddesses Marichi and Vajavarahi are said to have originated from Goddess Varahi.
Varahi’s Iconography
The iconography of Varahi is described in the sacred texts of Agamas and Matsya Purana. It mentions that there are five forms – Matsya Varahi, Svaona Varahi, Mahi Varahi, Canda Varahi, and Kracca Varahi. The Shakti Gods, or Matrikas are described as having jewelry and mount and has Varaha’s boar-face. It is depicted with a human body with a sow face and a complexion that is compared to a storm cloud. The face which is in the shape of a sow may seem derogatory but experts say that it is associated and used in curses to protect the land from trespassers and invaders. She is depicted with a conical crown and is shown standing on one leg.
Varahi Amman Temple, Trichy
The Varahi Amman Temple located in the Tiruchirapalli district of Tamil Nadu is one of the most powerful temples in India. The temple was established by Dasaar Boopathi Swami who was a great devotee of the seven goddesses (Sapta Matrikas). The Varahi Amman Temple is believed to be auspicious as it is believed that she blesses all her devotees who visit her and pray for their wishes to be fulfilled. She is said to be a powerful Goddess who can get rid of all Drishi Doshas or evil eyes and shield her devotees from negativities.
Architecture of Varahi Amman Temple, Trichy
It was built by the Cholas during their rule and they were great administrators and builders apart from being conquerors. They were said to be lovers of art and have built many magnificent temples including the Varahi Amman Temple. The shrine is in the shape of a chariot and has the idol of the Goddess at the centre. The goddess is said to be standing on one leg with the other leg on a demon. This posture is believed to show strength and the devotees consider her to be an epitome of power and strength coupled with grace and kindness. The temple is in the North direction and as per Vastu it is a direction that provides victories.
The temple has an ornate and tall Gopuram which has many intricate scriptures of various deities. It is the main entrance of the Varahi Amman Temple. There are various Mandapams in the temple complex which are used for festivities, gatherings and other rituals. The pillars of these halls have scriptures showcasing amazing craftsmanship. The main shrine is as per Vastu Shastra and the Prakaram has many shrines dedicated to other gods. The Murtis in the temple are intricately carved with scriptures and these adorn the walls, ceilings and every pillar of the temple and add to the religious significance and also make the temple look beautiful. The architecture of the Varahi Amman temple reflects the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu with its exquisite carvings and elaborate scriptures.
The Legend Of Varahi Amman Temple
The temples are said to have been constructed during the Chola Dynasty and as per history books they were followers and worshippers of the Varahi Amman Temple. She is a Goddess who is known for immense physical and mental strength as well as grace. It is believed that before the Cholas left for any campaign or war, they sought her blessings by offering prayers. When the temple was built, it is said that Varahi Amman appeared and asked not to have a roof over the shrine. So when you visit the place, you will see that there is no roof on the shrine. The reason for this is that Amman did not want any human to suffer but because of the Karmic cycles, they have to suffer. So she did not want a roof over the shrine until all her devotees had a roof over their heads.
Festivals of Varahi Amman Temple
One of the major festivals conducted in Varahi Amman temple on the first day of the month is the Chithirai festival. On this day, there is a Pooja performed by the priest after which the ladies also conduct a Pooja and all the devotees can visit the Goddess. Another important festival in this temple is conducted during the Aadi month where elderly women come to the temple and do a ritual for girls. They pray for the well-being of the girls and give Prasadam and bangles. Navaratri is also pompously celebrated in the Aani month. The nine days and nights of Navaratri are an important occasion here where devotees offer the Goddess a variety of rice items.
Benefits of Worshipping in Varahi Amman Temple
Varahi Amman is a powerful Goddess who is known for her immense strength both physical and mental. But she is also known to have great kindness and compassion towards her devotees. She protects all those who seek her blessings and also bestows the wishes of those who pray with sincerity and devotion. Worshipping her in Varahi Amman Temple is said to remove all the Doshas and also get rid of all negative effects. Praying to her can protect them from accidents and also get rid of health issues. She also bestows happiness and prosperity on her devotees. Worshipping her also helps her devotees win over enemies and also get peace and salvation.
How To Get To Varahi Amman Temple?
- By Air: The Temple is at a 12 kms distance from the Tiruchirapalli domestic airport.
- By Rail: It is 7 km from Tiruchirapalli railway station and there are many trains connecting it to this city.
- By Road: It is 6 km from the bus stand and has many connecting buses.
Temple Timings Of Varahi Amman Temple
Monday- Sunday: 7: AM to 10: AM; 5:30 PM to 8: 30 PM
