Sri Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple, Srimushnam – The Sacred Varaha Divya Desam of Tamil Nadu

Sri Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple, Srimushnam is one of the most ancient and spiritually powerful Vishnu temples in South India, dedicated to Lord Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Located near Chidambaram in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, this temple is revered as a Divya Desam, glorified by the Azhwars in the Nalayira Divya Prabandham. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Varaha here grants relief from ancestral doshas, bestows prosperity, and removes deep-rooted obstacles in life.

History & Spiritual Significance

Srimushnam is traditionally known as Dakshina Varaha Kshetram (the southern abode of Lord Varaha). According to legend, Lord Vishnu took the Varaha avatar here to rescue Mother Earth (Bhudevi) from the demon Hiranyaksha. The temple is also associated with Sage Markandeya, who is believed to have attained divine grace at this sacred site.

Epigraphical evidence suggests that the temple flourished during the Chola, Pandya, and Vijayanagara periods, with royal patronage ensuring the continuation of rituals and festivals. The temple’s status as a Divya Desam elevates it among the most important Vaishnavite pilgrimage centers in Tamil Nadu.

Architecture & Temple Features

Built in classic Dravidian architectural style, the temple features:

• A majestic rajagopuram

• Spacious prakaram corridors

• A sacred temple tank (Nithya Pushkarani) believed to possess purifying powers
  The presiding deity Lord Bhuvaraha Swamy is seen in a commanding posture, symbolizing protection, strength, and the upliftment of devotees.

Poojas & Rituals

Daily worship follows Vaikhanasa Agama traditions.

Major Poojas Include:

• Vishwaroopa Darshan (early morning)

• Kaalasanthi

• Uchikalam

• Sayarakshai

• Ardha Jama Pooja

Special Poojas:

• Varaha Homam

• Bhoomi Pooja

• Prithvi Dosha Nivaranam rituals (very popular at Srimushnam)

Temple Timings

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM

• Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  (Timings may vary on festival days and special occasions)

Festivals & Auspicious Days

• Varaha Jayanti

• Brahmotsavam

• Vaikunta Ekadasi

• Panguni Uthiram

These festivals attract thousands of devotees from across Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.

Location & How to Reach

• Location: Srimushnam, near Chidambaram, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu

• Nearest Railway Station: Chidambaram (≈25 km)

• Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (≈160 km)

• Well connected by road from Chidambaram, Mayiladuthurai, and Cuddalore

Why Visit Sri Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple, Srimushnam?

• One of the Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Varaha

• Powerful temple for Bhoomi dosha & ancestral remedies

• Ancient spiritual center with rich Azhwar legacy

• Peaceful village atmosphere ideal for spiritual retreats