Varaha Jayanti 2026: Significance and observance of Lord Vishnu's third avatar

Varaha Jayanti, the celebration of the third avatar of Lord Vishnu, is observed on September 13, 2026. According to the Hindu calendar, the festival falls on the third day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada.

According to religious mythology, Lord Vishnu assumed the Varaha (boar) form to rescue the Earth after it was stolen by the demon Hiranyaksha and hidden in the depths of the ocean. The deity fought and defeated the demon, subsequently lifting the Earth back to its proper place to restore cosmic balance and righteousness.

Devotees observe the day through fasting, prayers, and rituals. Recommended worship timings for 2026 include the afternoon period from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Traditional practices involve bathing, performing abhisheka with Panchamrit, offering yellow flowers and sweets, and chanting the mantra ‘Om Varahaya Namah’ to seek blessings for peace and prosperity.