Nandi
नन्दी
Nandi is the sacred bull and the chief attendant (ganapati) of Lord Shiva, who serves as his vahana (divine mount), gatekeeper, and guardian of Kailash. He is considered a powerful avatar of Shiva himself, born to uphold Dharma, devotion, and strength. Revered as a symbol of purity, patience, and truth, Nandi is the foremost among Shiva's followers and is always seen sitting in front of Shiva temples, facing the sanctum.
To serve as Shiva’s divine vehicle, lead the ganas (celestial attendants), uphold dharma, and protect the gates of Mount Kailash. Nandi also acts as a guardian of wisdom and a conduit of devotion to Mahadev.
Appearance: A majestic white bull with glowing eyes, symbolizing purity and dharma. Sometimes depicted as a divine being with a human torso and bull’s head, seated in meditation or kneeling before Shiva.
Symbols
Weapons
Mount
None (He himself is the mount of Shiva)
Associated Elements
Nandi symbolizes the ideal devotee — one who waits, watches, serves, and meditates on the divine constantly. Facing the Shiva Linga, he teaches the path of silent contemplation and surrender. He also represents Dharma (righteousness), strength, patience, and devotion.
- True service is devotion in silence.
- Dharma must be upheld even in challenging times.
- The gateway to divine knowledge is humility and steadfast faith.
Lord Shiva
Nandi is Shiva’s closest devotee, vehicle, and gatekeeper.
Parvati
Nandi serves Devi Parvati with equal devotion and protects her sanctity.
Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur)
Tamil Nadu, India
Houses one of the largest Nandi statues in India, carved from a single stone.
Lepakshi Nandi
Andhra Pradesh, India
Massive monolithic Nandi sculpture known for its grandeur and mythological links.
Chamundi Hills Nandi
Mysore, Karnataka, India
Giant Nandi statue on the way to Chamundeshwari Temple, carved from a single granite block.