Goddess Varahi Devi is one of the seven revered Mother Goddesses known as the Sapta Matrikas in Hinduism. These goddesses embody different aspects of divine feminine power, and Varahi Amman, in particular, is recognized as the female counterpart of Varaha, the boar avatar of Lord Vishnu. Varahi is uniquely depicted with the face of a boar and the body of a woman, symbolizing her powerful role in maintaining the cosmic order.

The iconography of Varahi Amman is as striking as her significance. She is typically portrayed with a sow's face on a human body and a black complexion. Often shown with a pot-bellied figure and full breasts, she represents fertility and abundance. Varahi can be depicted with two, four, six, or eight arms, each holding various weapons and symbols, emphasizing her martial and protective qualities. She wears a conical basket-shaped crown, known as the "karaṇḍa mukuṭa," and is often depicted standing, seated, or dancing. In some representations, Varahi also bears a third eye or a crescent moon on her forehead, underscoring her divine and otherworldly nature.

Varahi Amman's origin story is both captivating and powerful. According to Hindu mythology, she was created to defeat the demon Pandasura, who had obtained a boon from Lord Shiva that made him invincible to any man. The boon stipulated that he could only be killed by a woman who was not born from another woman. To meet this condition, Goddess Shakti manifested as Varahi Amman. Together with her brother, Lord Ganesha, Varahi Amman fought and ultimately vanquished Pandasura, restoring dharma (cosmic order) in the process.

The Significance of the Sri Maha Varahi Amman Temple

One of the most renowned temples dedicated to Varahi Amman is the "Sri Maha Varahi Amman Temple" in Sholinghur, Tamil Nadu. Located in the Vellore district, this temple is a significant pilgrimage site where devotees seek the blessings and protection of Goddess Varahi. The temple is a center of worship for those who revere Varahi Amman for her fierce and nurturing qualities.

Benefits of Worshipping Varahi Amman

In Hindu tradition, worshipping Goddess Varahi Amman is believed to bring numerous blessings:

- Protection: Varahi Amman is believed to provide protection from negative energies and evil forces.
- Success and Prosperity: Devotees pray to her for success, prosperity, and overall well-being.
- Health and Healing: Worshipping Varahi Amman is said to improve health and cure diseases.
- Overcoming Obstacles: She is revered as an obstacle remover who helps devotees overcome challenges, build inner strength, and develop courage and confidence.

Auspicious Days for Worshipping Varahi Amman

Traditionally, Goddess Varahi Amman is worshipped on Tuesdays and Fridays, which are considered especially auspicious for her. Additionally, the following days are also important for her worship:

- Ashtami and Navami: The eighth and ninth lunar days of the Hindu calendar month.
- Ammavasai: The New Moon Day.
- Pournami The Full Moon Day.
- Vijayadashami: The tenth day of the Navaratri celebration.

However, it is important to note that different regions and traditions may have their own specific days or rituals for worshipping Varahi Amman. It is advisable to seek guidance from a priest or local religious authority to observe the correct days and ceremonies for her devotion.

Source : Lovenspire, shreeyaash
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