The ancient Bhoovaraha Swamy temple in Srimushnam, under the control of HR & CE Department, has been under renovation and work is nearing completion but there are a lot of loose ends, to say the least. Samprokshanam, in fact has been fixed for February, it is learnt. The temple, which is one of the eight swayambu kshetrams – a list that includes Srirangam, Tirupati and Vanamaamalai - in its current form and structure is believed to have been constructed by four Nayak kings – Achuthappa, Ananthappa, Govindappa and Kondappa Nayak.
Sources say that the HR & CE Department had sanctioned a large amount for the complete renovation including repair works, painting and giving the mandapams a new look, but devotees are concerned that the quality of work, especially that related to the Rajagopurarm leaves much to be desired.
For instance, the top tier of the rajagopuram has developed cracks and debris has been falling on the tier beneath. Left unattended, it would be completely damaged in the course of time. Devotees are reminded of the Kalahasti temple here.
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On the whole, it seems to be a painting exercise that has been carried out rather than renovation in earnest at the historical temple. Each top tier of the gopuram requires attention but as seen from the photograph, the rajagopuram has already been painted and given a new look camouflaging the bad state in which it actually is.
Besides, some of the idols/sculptures that have developed cracks have also been painted and given a new look ignoring the cracks.
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With two months left for the consecration, the temple can be saved if steps are taken immediately. An expert committee should be formed without delay to take stock of the situation and recommend corrective action. Devotees feel the Chief Minister should intervene, postpone the samprokshanam and take a fresh look at the renovation efforts. Only then can the structure, especially the Rajagopuram, can be safeguarded.
Legend has it that Lord Vishnu created the pushkarani with the sweat emanating from his body after his battle with Hiranyakshan. As his last wish on the death bed, Hiranyakshan requested the Lord to turn towards his direction. Hence Bhoovaraha’s face is seen turned towards the South, in the direction of the asura, while the body bearing a human shape is facing West, in the direction of the devotees. The Lord here is in the form of a small idol signifying the Varaha Avatar.
Sri Boovarahaswamy temple, Srimushnam, incidentally, is a Prarthana Sthalam for childless couples. Women, who take bath in the sacred temple tank and recite the Varaha Kavacham are said to be blessed with progeny. This is also a prarthana sthalam for unmarried people who on offering their prayers to Saptha Kannigal are said to find their match immediately. The principal deity is also believed to help devotees with the purchase of house and car.