Virupaksha
विरूपाक्ष
Virupaksha is the fourth of the Ekadasha Rudras of Shiva, known as the 'One with Strange or Uneven Eyes'. This form represents Shiva’s all-seeing awareness, particularly the third eye (Trinetra) that perceives truth beyond form and illusion. He is the cosmic observer, the silent witness of all time, events, and karma — neutral, unshakable, yet capable of consuming everything in a glance.
Virupaksha symbolizes **divine insight**, the **power of intuitive perception**, and the ability to **see beyond maya (illusion)**. His dissimilar eyes represent the duality of the material world and the third eye denotes transcendental wisdom. He watches over all beings without attachment, like an eternal guardian of cosmic truth.
When devas and sages requested a Rudra who could **oversee the karmic actions** of all beings across time, Shiva manifested as Virupaksha — the all-seeing Rudra with dissimilar eyes. He was tasked with maintaining the **balance between karma and divine intervention**, ensuring the impartial flow of cosmic justice. It is said that his mere gaze can burn away falsehood and ignorance.
Source Texts:
Appearance: Virupaksha is shown with **three eyes** — two regular and one vertical eye on the forehead radiating light or fire. His complexion ranges from **smoky grey to deep blue**, his body adorned with snakes and ash. He holds a **mirror (symbol of reflection)**, **rosary**, and **trident**, and is often seated in meditation or blessing pose.
Symbols
Weapons
Mount
Tiger or Lion (symbolizing insight and strength)
Direction
West
Element
Akasha (Space) and Light
Virupaksha is the inner witness (Sakshi) of Vedanta, representing the Atman who sees all but is unaffected. His third eye symbolizes Jnana (knowledge), Vairagya (detachment), and direct perception of Brahman. In Shaiva Yoga, he is the one who burns ignorance through inner vision, reminding the seeker to see beyond surface dualities.
ॐ विरूपाक्षाय नमः
Translation: Om, salutations to Virupaksha, the all-seeing One.
Chanted to awaken inner clarity, perception, and protection from illusion.
ॐ त्रिनेत्राय विद्महे विरूपाक्षाय धीमहि। तन्नो रुद्रः प्रचोदयात्॥
Translation: We meditate on the Three-Eyed One, Virupaksha; may that Rudra guide our vision.
For enhancing inner wisdom and perception.
Major Temples
Virupaksha Temple - Hampi, Karnataka
One of the most ancient and sacred Shiva temples in India; the deity is worshiped as Virupaksha, the all-seeing Rudra.
Virupa Linga Shrine - Kashi (Varanasi), Uttar Pradesh
A subtle linga in the inner sanctum of Kashi Vishwanath, associated with Virupaksha’s invisible sight.
Festivals
Maha Shivaratri: Virupaksha is invoked during midnight meditations to awaken inner seeing and burn past karma.
Guru Purnima: Virupaksha is honored as the silent guide (Antar Guru) who bestows inner light.