Did you know Raja Raja Chola worshipped Varahi Amman as his foremost deity? Yes, the great king Raja Raja Chola, one of the most illustrious emperors in Indian history, had a deep devotion to the Goddess Varahi Amman. The king is renowned not only for his military conquests and administrative skills but also for his spirituality and reverence towards Varahi Amman. This divine connection was pivotal in his life and reign, influencing his decisions and achievements.
The Divine Influence of Varahi Amman on Raja Raja Chola
According to historical accounts, Raja Raja Chola expanded his kingdom with the blessings of Sri Varahi. It is believed that the goddess blessed him due to his fair justice and disciplined personality. This powerful goddess, one of the seven Sapta Kanyas, is depicted with the face of a boar (Varaha), three eyes, and eight divine arms. She holds a Sangu (Conch), Chakra (discus), sword, pestle, plough, and drum, and displays the gestures of fearlessness and granting boons. The blue-complexioned goddess, adorned in a red garment, wears a crescent moon and a navaratna crown and is seated on a lion, as described in the Puranas.
Varahi Amman is regarded as a fierce deity, yet she is unparalleled in bestowing love. By chanting and worshipping with the Varahi Gayatri Mantra, she grants desired boons. Varahi Amman is known as the commander-in-chief of Raja Rajeswari Amman, the guardian deity of Padmavati Amman, and one of the Sapta Kanyas.
According to the Puranas, night worship is particularly suitable for Sri Varahi. Therefore, it is said that worshipping Varahi at the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur in the evening brings great benefits. The great king Raja Raja Chola, who built the Brihadeeswarar Temple, would worship Varahi Amman before going to war. He sought the blessings of this goddess before starting any important task.
It is also believed that Varahi Amman played a crucial role in the construction of the Thanjavur Peruvudayar Temple by Rajaraja Chola. According to legend, when Rajaraja Chola was searching for a site to build the temple, Varahi Amman appeared as a wild boar to guide him. Consequently, he built a shrine for her at the Peruvudayar Temple in Thanjavur.
Varahi Amman Temple in Tamil Nadu
Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswarar Temple, Trichy
In Tamil Nadu, it is rare to find a shrine dedicated to Varahi. One notable exception is the Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswarar Temple, which is revered as a Shakti Peetha and recognized as a Sri Varahi Peetha according to the temple's history. Devotees believe that worshipping Varahi here can help overcome obstacles in marriage, aid in having children, protect against enemies, and resolve legal issues, bringing success to those who seek her blessings.
Kashiyampathi Temple
In Kashiyampathi, there is a grand temple dedicated specifically to Sri Varahi. This temple is noted for its elaborate rituals, especially the early morning abhishekam (ritual bathing) and the three types of aartis performed for Varahi. Witnessing these rituals is thought to purify one’s sins and bring numerous blessings.
Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur
While the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur is primarily celebrated for its architectural grandeur and historical significance, the mention of Varahi Amman in the context of its kumbhabhishekam (consecration ceremony) indicates an additional layer of spiritual significance. The Varahi Amman worship here is imbued with the belief in her boon-bestowing powers and blessings.
Varahi Amman Gayathri Mantra
Om Shyamalaayai Vidmahe
Hala Hastayai Dhimahi
Tanno Varahi Prachodayat
Chanting this mantra 108 times daily is highly beneficial. Those who recite it will gain the strength to achieve anything.
Raja Raja Chola’s devotion to Varahi Amman and the temples he built in her honour is a testament to his deep spiritual connection and belief in divine blessings. These temples continue to be centers of worship and devotion, drawing countless devotees seeking the goddess’s blessings. The legacy of Raja Raja Chola and his devotion to Varahi Amman remains an integral part of Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.