Temple Description

The Varaha Temple, constructed in the 13th century during the Vijayanagara Empire, was a prominent place of worship. Vishnu, a major deity in Hinduism, was revered through his incarnation as Varaha, the boar, particularly in Hampi.

According to legend, Varaha was the third avatar of Vishnu, sent to rescue the earth from the demon Hiranyaksha. The demon had dragged the earth to the depths of the cosmic ocean, prompting Vishnu to assume the form of Varaha to save it. After a thousand-year battle, Varaha triumphed and lifted the earth out of the ocean using his tusks, earning him the title of the eternal guardian of the earth.

Architecturally, the Varaha Temple exemplifies the Vijayanagara style. The temple complex is enclosed by a rectangular wall, with a grand entrance tower that, despite significant damage, still showcases its former splendor. The temple itself is centrally located within the compound.

Notably, the temple’s walls feature carvings of boars, some of which include the Vijayanagara Royal insignia. This insignia consists of four elements: Varaha (the boar), the Sun, the Moon, and a Dagger. These carvings underscore the temple’s historical importance and its connection to the Vijayanagara rulers.