Goddess Varahi Amman, one of the seven sacred Matrikas in Hinduism, is the fierce Shakti of Lord Varaha, the boar avatar of Vishnu. Worshipped across India and Nepal, she symbolizes divine protection, strength, and destruction of evil. With a sow’s face and powerful weapons, Varahi is invoked for spiritual growth, health, and victory over darkness. Her stories and forms span Hindu, Buddhist, and Tantric traditions, revealing her role as a universal mother and cosmic protector.
In the Hindu Religion, “Varahi” is one of the “Matrikas,” a group of seven mother goddesses. Bearing the head of a sow, “Varahi” is the shakti (feminine energy) of Lord Varaha, the boar incarnation (avatar) of Vishnu. In Nepal, Varahi is known as Barahi. In Rajasthan and Gujarat, She is revered as “Dandini”.
Varahi is venerated in the sect of Shaktism, also in Shaivism (devotees of Shiva) and Vaishnavism (devotees of Vishnu). She is usually worshipped at night, using secretive Vamamarga Tantric practices. The Buddhist goddess Vajravarahi and Marichi have their origins in the Hindu goddess Varahi.
The legends surrounding Goddess Varahi are rich in symbolism and power, steeped in both Shaktism and Tantric traditions. Here are some of the most celebrated tales:
According to the “Shumbha-Nishumbha” story of the Devi Mahatmya from the Markandeya Purana religious texts, the “Matrikas goddesses” appear as “Shaktis (feminine powers)” from the bodies of the gods. When the demon “Shumbha” challenges Durga to combat, She absorbs the Matrikas into herself. It has been described in the scriptures that Matrikas dance on the demons’ blood after the battle.
The scriptures describe Varahi as emerging from Lord Varaha (the cosmic boar incarnation of Vishnu). Bearing a boar face and armed with a sword and chakra, Varahi is considered the fifth of the Matrikas a guardian deity for earthly protection and spiritual strength.
According to “Devi Mahatmya” (a Hindu philosophical text describing the Goddess, known as Mahadevi or Adishakti) that deals with the killing of the demon “Raktabija”, the warrior-goddess Durga creates the Matrikas from herself and with their help slaughters the demon army. In the “Vamana Purana”, the Matrikas arise from different parts of the Divine Mother Chandika; Varahi arises from Chandika’s back.
In the “Devi Bhagavata Purana,” the Earth is considered the receptacle of all things moving and non-moving. After killing the demon “Hiranyaksha”, Varaha rescues Prithvi and sets her afloat on the waters. Assuming the splendid form of the cosmic boar, He copulates with her and impregnates her. The Earth then gave birth to the planet Mars (Mangal). Varaha worships her as Devi Incarnate. The Earth Mother replies that at his command she will assume the form of “Varahi” and easily support the whole world of moving and non-moving things on her back.
Goddess Varahi’s iconography is powerful and symbolic, representing her cosmic role as a protector and nurturer. Her visual depiction reflects both her fierce nature and her maternal aspects. Here are key features of her portrayal:
Varahi is often depicted with the face of a sow (boar) symbolizing her connection to the cosmic boar, Lord Varaha. Her face, gently fierce, signifies her strength and earth-based nurturing energy.
Goddess Varahi is usually shown with a dark complexion, resembling a storm cloud, representing the cosmic energy and the infinite universe she governs.
Varahi wears the “Karanda Mukuta,” a conical basket-shaped crown. She is depicted as pot-bellied and with full breasts, which signifies her sovereignty over the material and spiritual realms.
She is described as holding the earth on her tusks, similar to Varaha. This symbolizes her role in sustaining and protecting the world, both physically and spiritually. There is a belief that Varahi is identified with the Yoganidra of Vishnu, who holds the earth in her womb (Bhugarbha Paranmesvari Jagaddhatri).
✔️Varahi may be two, four, six or eight armed and can be depicted in sitting, standing and dancing.
✔️In the “Vishnudharmottara Purana,” “Goddess Varahi” has been described with a six arms, holding a danda (staff of punishment), khetaka (shield), khadga (sword) and pasha (noose) while performing “Abhaya” and “Varada Mudra” (blessing gesture).
✔️In Rupamandana, Varahi is depicted with four arms, carrying a ghanta (bell), a chamara (a Yak’s tail), a chakra (discus) and a gada (mace).
✔️In Purva-Karanagama mentions, “Varahi” holds the Sharanga (the bow of Vishnu), the hala (plough) and the musula (pestle).
✔️The Agni Purana portrays her wielding the gada, shankha, sword, and ankusha (goad).
✔️In the “Devi Purana,” “Varahi” is described as carrying a sword, iron club, pasha (noose), and khetka (shield).
Varahi is frequently shown performing the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of protection) and Varada Mudra (gesture of blessing), symbolizing her dual nature of offering both defense and grace to her devotees.
Devi Varahi, like many other deities, is often depicted riding or seated on a sacred mount or vahana, each symbolizing her immense power and divine attributes. The choice of vahana signifies different aspects of her strength, grace, and her ability to transcend various realms of existence. Here are the primary vahanas associated with Goddess Varahi:
✔️Buffalo (Mahisha): Varahi is seen seated on a buffalo, representing strength, resilience, and power. The buffalo symbolizes the earthly domain and the primal forces of nature that the Goddess controls.
✔️Lotus Pedestal (Pitha): Symbol of spiritual purity, In some traditions, Varahi is shown standing or seated on a lotus pedestal (pitha), which signifies the Goddess’s connection to the divine and her role as a spiritual guide.
✔️Boar (Varaha): The boar mount symbolizes the cosmic forces of creation and protection, especially since Varahi is the feminine counterpart to the boar avatar of Vishnu (Varaha). It highlights her ability to support and protect the earth.
✔️Serpent (Shesha): Shesha, the cosmic serpent, represents the vastness of the universe and infinite power. When Varahi rides Shesha, it symbolizes her dominion over the cosmic balance and her role in the preservation of creation.
✔️Horse (Jambini): The horse mount represents speed, freedom, and the Goddess’s ability to overcome obstacles swiftly. Jambini, the name of the horse, also ties her to the force of divine energy in motion.
✔️Lion: Varahi on a lion represents courage, fearlessness, and royalty. The lion is known as the king of beasts, signifying Varahi’s supreme power in the divine realm.
✔️Garuda (Eagle-Man): Garuda, the eagle-man, is Vishnu's vehicle and symbolizes divine intelligence and the ability to soar beyond material limitations. When Varahi is depicted riding Garuda, it indicates her transcendence over space and time, and her role as a protector of the cosmos.
One of the most well-known Varahi Amman temples in Tamil Nadu is the “Sri Maha Varahi Amman Temple” in Sholinghur. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Varahi, a divine and powerful deity in Hinduism. Sholinghur is a town in Vellore district, and the Varahi Amman Temple there is considered a significant pilgrimage site for devotees seeking the blessings and protection of Goddess Varahi.
Goddess Varahi’s influence transcends Hinduism. In Tibetan Buddhism, she manifests as a “Dakini,” an enlightened and compassionate deity adored for her protecting abilities. Devotees believe that she has the power to discern omens and predictions, assisting people in transcending material attachments like greed and desire. “Vajravarahi” (“Vajra-hog” or Buddhist Varahi), the most popular form of the Buddhist goddess “Vajrayogini”, originated from the Hindu Varahi.
Vajravarahi is referred to as Varahi in Buddhism. Vajravarahi inherited Varahi’s fierce nature and wrath. Both are employed to eliminate adversaries. The sow head of Varahi is also depicted as the right-side head attached to the main head of Vajravarahi. According to Tibetan scriptures, the hog head represents the sublimation of ignorance (“Moha”). It is believed that “Varahi” enters the Buddhist pantheon through the yogatantras.
Varahi is depicted in the “Sarvatathagatatattvasamgaraha” (a Bhuddist tantric text) as a “Shaiva sarvamatr” (“All-mother”) located in hell who is converted to the Buddhist mandala by Vajrapani and given the name Vajramukhi (“Vajra-face”). Varahi also makes an appearance in the Heruka-mandala as an attendant goddess. Varahi, along with “Varttali” (another form of Varahi), appears as the attendant of Marichi, who also has a sow face.
The mantras and slokas of Goddess Varahi are considered highly potent and spiritually transformative. Chanting these sacred verses is believed to invoke her protection, blessings, and strength. Here's a look at some of the most powerful mantras dedicated to her:
This Gayatri mantra is one of the most revered ways to invoke Varahi's divine energy. Devotees are encouraged to chant it three, twenty-one, or 108 times daily for maximum spiritual benefit.
Mantra:
"Om Shyamalaayai Vidmahae Hala Hasthaya Dhimahi, Thanno Vaaraahi Prachodhayaath"
This mantra is meant to invoke Goddess Varahi’s strength and wisdom, enhancing the spiritual growth of the devotee.
This powerful mantra is known to bring protection, prosperity, and removal of obstacles. Regular chanting is said to grant the devotee the blessings of Varahi in every aspect of life.
Om Aim Hreem ShreemAim Gloum AimNamo BhagavathiVarthali VarthaliVarahi VarahiVarahamuki VarahamukiAnthe Anthini NamahaRunthe Runthini NamahaJambe Jambini NamahaMohe Mohini NamahaSthambe Sthambini NamahaSarvadusta Pradustanaam SarvesaamSarva Vaak Sidha SakchurMukagathi JihwaStambanam kuru KuruSeegram VasyamAim GloumTaha, iTaha, thaha, ThahaHum Astraya phat Swaha ||
This Mool Mantra is a call to Varahi’s divine presence, invoking her to remove all negative influences and bring peace and prosperity to the devotee’s life. Chanting it daily for forty-eight days is believed to bring powerful transformations.
“Dwadasha” means twelve in Sanskrit, whereas Nama means names. Thus, the “Varahi Dwadasanama Stotram” has 12 names of Sri Varahi Devi.
अस्य श्रीवाराही द्वादशनामस्तोत्रस्य अश्वानन ऋषिः ।अनुष्टुप्छन्दः । श्रीवाराही देवता ।श्रीवाराहि प्रसादसिद्ध्यर्थं सर्वसङ्कटहरण जपे विनियोगः ।पञ्चमी दण्डनाथा च सङ्केता समयेश्वरी ।तथा समयसङ्केता वाराही पोत्रिणी शिवा ॥ १॥वार्ताली च महासेनाऽऽज्ञाचक्रेश्वरी तथा ।अरिघ्नी चेति सम्प्रोक्तं नाम द्वादशकं मुने ॥ २॥नाम द्वादशधाभिज्ञ वज्रपञ्जरमध्यगः ।सङकटे दुःखमाप्नोति न कदाचन मानवः ॥ ३॥इति श्री वाराही द्वादशनाम स्तोत्रम् सम्पूर्णम् ।
Worshipping Goddess Varahi is believed to bestow numerous spiritual and material blessings upon her devotees. Her immense power as a protector and nurturer can transform lives in profound ways. Here are some of the most notable benefits of praying to Goddess Varahi:
Goddess Varahi is revered as a shield against harmful forces and negative energies. Regular worship is believed to create a protective aura, safeguarding the devotee from spiritual harm and ill-wishing.
Varahi is often invoked for success in personal and professional endeavors. Her blessings are said to bring prosperity, success in business, and the removal of financial obstacles, leading to abundant blessings in one's life.
It is believed that praying to Goddess Varahi can improve health and even cure diseases. She is seen as a divine healer whose energy can restore balance and vitality to the body, mind, and soul.
As an obstacle remover, Varahi helps devotees overcome life’s challenges. Whether facing personal hurdles, professional roadblocks, or spiritual stagnation, Varahi’s blessings empower individuals to break through limitations and move forward with courage and confidence.
Worship of Goddess Varahi instills a deep sense of inner strength, courage, and self-confidence. She helps her devotees tap into their inner power, encouraging them to face life’s trials with resilience and faith.
In the tradition of worshipping Goddess Varahi, certain days are considered particularly auspicious for invoking her divine blessings. Devotees believe that worshipping on these days enhances the spiritual impact of their prayers. Here are the key days dedicated to praying to Goddess Varahi:
These two days are the most significant for worshipping Goddess Varahi. Tuesdays and Fridays are considered auspicious, and performing rituals or chanting mantras on these days brings immense spiritual rewards.
Ashtami (8th day) and Navami (9th day) are special lunar days in the Hindu calendar, especially during the Navaratri period. Prayers to Varahi on these days are believed to enhance one’s spiritual strength and bring positive change.
The New Moon day, or Amavasya, is another powerful day for worshipping Varahi. It is a time for spiritual cleansing, and devotees believe that offering prayers on this day removes negative energies and paves the way for blessings.
The Full Moon day, or Purnima, is also a favorable time for prayers to Goddess Varahi. Worshipping on this day is said to increase spiritual power and bring fulfillment in various aspects of life.
Vijayadashami, celebrated during the Navaratri festival, is a day of victory. It is especially significant for invoking Varahi’s blessings to overcome obstacles and emerge victorious in challenges.
While these days are considered most auspicious, different regions and traditions may have their own specific days and ceremonial practices dedicated to Goddess Varahi. For the most accurate guidance, it’s always recommended to consult with a priest or local religious authority to ensure proper observance of rituals and prayers.
Goddess Varahi is worshipped across India and beyond, with several temples dedicated to her reverence. These temples are significant pilgrimage sites where devotees seek her blessings for protection, success, and spiritual growth. Here are some of the most renowned temples dedicated to Goddess Varahi:
Located in the Chaurasi village of Odisha, this temple is known for its ancient rituals and strong spiritual energy. It is one of the key places of worship for Varahi Amman in Eastern India.
In the holy city of Varanasi, this temple is revered by devotees who seek spiritual growth and divine protection. Varahi’s blessings are believed to purify the soul and remove obstacles in life.
Tanjavur in Tamil Nadu is home to a historic Varahi temple that attracts devotees from across the region. Known for its architectural splendor, this temple is a spiritual haven for those seeking Goddess Varahi’s divine intervention.
Situated in the temple town of Uthirakosamangai, this sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Varahi and is a key destination for worshippers in Southern India. The temple is renowned for its tranquil ambiance and spiritual significance.
This temple in Salamedu near Villupuram is particularly famous for worshipping eight forms of Devi Varahi. Known as the Ashta-Varahi, it offers devotees the opportunity to connect with the diverse manifestations of the Goddess.
The Varahi Temple in Sozhinganallur, Chennai, is another notable place of worship. This temple is visited by many who wish to receive Varahi’s blessings for success and protection from negative energies.
Located near the beautiful Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Nepal, this temple honors the Goddess in her Buddhist form. Devotees from both Hindu and Buddhist traditions visit here for blessings of peace, prosperity, and spiritual awakening.
Worshipping Goddess Varahi offers devotees protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Her fierce yet compassionate nature helps believers overcome obstacles, challenges, and negativity in life. Whether through the chanting of her powerful mantras, visiting her sacred temples, or observing the auspicious days for worship, the blessings of Varahi are believed to transform one's life, bringing both material success and spiritual enlightenment.
References
1. Varahi Vajravarahi in the Tantras by VANDANA KANORIA
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