varahoidja

Varahoidja, also known as Varahoji or Varahodaya, is a lesser-known deity in Hindu mythology, primarily associated with the *Varaha Purana*, one of the eighteen major Puranas. The name "Varahoidja" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Varaha" means boar and "Idja" (or "Idya") relates to the concept of a divine or cosmic principle. In this context, Varahoidja is often interpreted as an aspect or manifestation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu trinity.

Varahoidja is most prominently linked to the boar avatar (*Varaha Avatara*) of Vishnu, in which he incarnated to rescue the earth goddess, Bhudevi, from the demon Hiranyaksha, who had pulled her into the cosmic waters. This episode is a key narrative in the *Varaha Purana*, emphasizing themes of cosmic balance, divine intervention, and the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness). The boar form symbolizes strength, endurance, and the ability to uplift and sustain life, aligning with Vishnu’s role as the protector of the universe.

While Varahoidja is not as widely worshipped as other forms of Vishnu, such as Krishna or Rama, references to this deity appear in certain regional traditions, particularly in parts of South India. Some devotees invoke Varahoidja during specific rituals or festivals related to the boar avatar, such as during the celebration of *Varaha Jayanti*, which commemorates Vishnu’s boar incarnation. The deity is also occasionally depicted in temple art and iconography, often shown with a boar’s head and four arms, holding symbolic objects like a discus, conch, mace, and lotus.

Scholars note that the term "Varahoidja" may also appear in older texts or regional dialects as a variant spelling or pronunciation of "Varaha," reflecting linguistic variations across Hindu traditions. Overall, Varahoidja represents a unique and lesser-discussed facet of Vishnu’s divine forms, highlighting the rich diversity within Hindu cosmology.