Varahaswamy Temple

The Sri Varahaswamy Temple, also called Bhu Varahaswamy Temple, is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Varaha, situated at hill town of Tirumala in Tirupati, located in Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh state, India. The temple is situated on the northern premises of Venkateshvara Temple, Tirumala, on the north-west corner of Swami Pushkarini. This temple is believed to be older than the Venkateshvara shrine.

Religious significance
As per local Hindu legend, after saving the earth from the asura 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 Adi Varaha Kshetra. In the beginning of the present Yuga Kali Yuga, Varaha donated land to another form of Vishnu - Venkateshvara on his request. As a gratitude, Venkateshvara offered the right of first bell, puja and naivedyam (food offering) to Varaha before they were offered to him. This is being followed as a tradition even today.

Devotees are prescribed to have darshana ("sight") of Varaha before Venkateshvara. It is believed that the pilgrimage to Tirumala will not be complete without having a darshana of Varaha.

History
The temple was renovated by Pedda Tirumalacharya in the year 1535 CE.

Administration
The temple is part of Tirumala Venkateshvara 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 Venkateshvara Temple.

Ritual practices
Daily rituals are held as per the Vaikhanasa Agama. The Chakrasnanam event during annual brahmotsavams, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, and Rathasaptami, are held in the mukha mandapa of Varahaswamy Temple. Varaha Jayanti is also celebrated.