Introduction
Varaha Jayanthi is celebrated as
the birth of Lord Vishnu in Varaha (boar)
form, which is his third avatar. It is observed on the second day of the waxing
phase of the moon (Shukla Paksha) (Feb- March). It is widely celebrated in
South India, and its main theme is the victory of good over evil. Lord Varaha defeated the demon Hirayaksha and rescued earth from his
clutches.
Significance
According to the Vishnu Purana, Lord Varaha is
represented as the savior of earth, which had fallen into chaos due to the
torment of Hirayaksha. The earth was placed between his tusks during the fierce
battle with the demon and carefully returned to its position above the sea.
Thus, devotees believe worshipping Lord Varaha on this day bestows relief from
evil and restores dharma (peace and order).
Mythology of Varaha Jayanthi
According to the Puranas, Diti,
one of thirteen wives of sage Kashyapa, gave birth to two highly powerful
demons named Hiranyakashyapu and Hiranyaksha. Both the brothers performed many
austerities to Lord Brahma. Lord Brahma was very pleased with them and offered
them a boon. The brothers asked Brahmas for the power on invincibility. Lord
Brahma granted them the boon. The brothers went about terrorizing the three
realms and captured them. They next went to capture Varuna Nagari, the kingdom of Lord Varuna. Lord Varuna told the
demons to stay away from the kingdom, reminding them that Lord Vishnu was the
protector of the Universe and that they could never defeat him.
Enraged by this, Hiranyaksha went
in search of Lord Vishnu and found him in the form of Lord Varaha. An epic battle ensued for a thousand of years between the
two, and ultimately Lord Varaha
emerged victoriously and returned order to the universe.
Rituals Observed
The day begins with a ritual bath
to cleanse the body. Following this, pooja is performed to Lord Varaha
contained in a metal Kalash(pot). The
Kalash is filled with water, and
mango leaves are placed in it. A coconut is placed on top. The devotee read
Shrimad Bhagwad Gita. Once the pooja is completed, the Kalash is handed over to a Brahmin. Those who observe fast on this
day are required to donate clothes and food to the needy, which invokes more
blessings from the Lord.
Scriptural blessings of observing
Varaha Jayanthi:
It helps overcome the evil forces and keeps them at bay.
It helps attain worldly and spiritual goals.
It purifies the body and soul of past sins and negative karma.
Blessings of wealth and leadership.