Sri Bhoo Varahaswamy Temple is dedicated to the third incarnation of the Lord Vishnu as Bhu Varahaswamy with the face of a wild boar. This temple is in Srimushnam around 40 Km from Chidambaram. First built by Cholas in 11th century this temple has significant contributions from the Thanjavur Nayak king Achuthappa Nayak.
The highlight of this temple is the sixteen pillared Mandapam (Hall) built by Achutappa Nayak. Each pillar is a monolith and sculpted with sculptures of Yali, musicians, dancers, miniature idols and Gods. They have not left even the ceiling of the mandapam vacant. There are 24 masterpieces on the ceiling too. The Gopuram of this temple is seven layered studded with numerous sculptures.
This mandapam is full of sculptures – all kinds of reliefs! It looks like it is an exhibition of their talent! Stand alone sculptures of elaborately decorated women are the main attraction in this mandapam!
In an age of rising religious intolerance a festival tradition that celebrates the unity between Hindus & Muslims is practiced in this temple. During the Maasi Maasam procession Bhoo Varahaswamy stops in front of the Dargah to pay homage to the Sufi Saint. During the halt the Imam offers prayers, rice, dry fruits & coconuts to the deity. In return a silk shawl with Tulsi leaves is offered at the Dargah for worship by Muslims! This happens once a year even today! This is the only Hindu temple which allows Muslims to enter it to pray to Hindu God!
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