Nandin: the joyful devotee of Shiva

The vahana (vehicle) of the great god Shiva is the bull Nandi. In Sanskrit, Nandi means 'joyful,' and this placid animal is also Mahadeva’s most fervent devotee. The bull symbolizes vigor, virtue, moral rectitude, and wisdom, as well as the sexual instinct subdued by Shiva. Along with the cow, the bull is considered a sacred animal in India, bringing good fortune and wisdom. Its footprint, the nandipada, is equally sacred and auspicious. Nandi always guards Shiva's door, preventing any disruptions that might distract the god from his activities, whether meditating or making love with Parvati. In all temples, Nandi is placed directly in front of the shrine housing the Lingam (the image of Shiva). Because it is considered disrespectful for a mere mortal to address the great god directly, the faithful whisper their requests into the bull's ear instead, and the bull then conveys them to his Lord. Statues and images of the bull Nandi are especially widespread in South India.