Varah

Varah is a prominent deity in Hindu mythology, recognized as the third avatar of the god Vishnu. This incarnational form is particularly significant in the context of Hindu beliefs surrounding divine intervention to restore cosmic order. The name "Varah" translates to "boar" in Sanskrit, reflecting the avatar's animal form.

According to mythological narratives, Varah emerged during a time when the demon Hiranyaksha had gained immense power and was causing chaos by plunging the earth into the cosmic ocean. To rescue the earth and restore balance, Vishnu incarnated as Varah, a mighty boar with a colossal size and strength. In this form, Varah dived into the ocean, fought and defeated Hiranyaksha, and lifted the earth out of the cosmic waters using his tusks. This event is celebrated as a symbol of divine protection and the restoration of dharma (righteousness).

The Varah avatar is depicted in various Hindu scriptures, including the Puranas like the Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana. Temples dedicated to Varah are found across India, and festivals celebrating this incarnation are observed by devotees, notably during Varaha Jayanti, which marks the appearance of the Varah avatar.

In art and sculpture, Varah is often represented as a boar with a human-like torso, sometimes holding a conch, discus, or club, symbols associated with Vishnu. The Varah story emphasizes themes of heroism, divine intervention, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, making it an enduring element of Hindu religious tradition.