Nandin: the joyful devotee of Shiva

The vahana (vehicle) of Shiva, the great God, is the bull Nandin. In Sanskrit, Nandin means 'joyful,' and this placid animal is also the most fervent devotee of Mahadeva. The bull symbolizes vigor, virtue, moral rectitude, and wisdom, but also the sexual instinct dominated 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.Nandin always guards Shiva's door, preventing any disruptions that might distract the God from his activities: meditating or making love with Parvati. In all temples, Nandin 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. The bull will then convey them to his Lord. Statues and images of the bull Nandin are especially widespread in South India.