वाराही घाट

Varahi Ghat in Varanasi is significant as the location of the Varahi Devi temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to Goddess Varahi, an aspect of Shakti. The temple is considered a Shakti Peetha, specifically where a tooth of Sati Devi is believed to have fallen.

As per the religious belief, Kal Bhairav, also called Kotwal of Varanasi, protects Kashi in daytime whereas Varahi Devi safeguards the entire city throughout the night & returns to the temple in the morning. Therefore, the temple has unique rituals, including the belief that Varahi Devi sleeps during the day and is only accessible for a short period in the morning.

Varahi Devi finds mention in the Kashi Khand of the Skanda Purana. Varahi, as per the Kashi Khanda, was one of the sixty-four ‘yoginis’ who were sent to Varanasi by Lord Shiva to destabilize the rule of King Divodas. All the ‘yoginis’ were enthralled by the charm of Varanasi and decided to settle down in Kashi itself.

She is worshipped primarily in the southern states of India, especially Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala. Devotees visit the temple seeking blessings for protection, wealth, and family harmony.