Shiva’s favorite animal is Nandi, the sacred bull. Nandi holds great significance in Hindu mythology and is considered the primary devotee and vehicle of Lord Shiva. Nandi is often depicted as a white bull with a muscular body and a majestic presence.
Read a related post: Which tree is under Krishna?
Nandi is not just a regular animal, but rather a divine being in Hindu culture. In temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, sculptures or statues of Nandi can usually be seen seated outside the main sanctum. These Nandi statues are believed to guard and worship the deity inside the temple.
The bond between Shiva and Nandi is profound and is rooted in deep reverence and loyalty. Nandi represents unwavering devotion, strength, and righteousness. This divine bull is considered to be a symbol of determination and the embodiment of all good qualities.
Nandi’s association with Shiva extends to various mythological stories as well. For instance, Nandi played a significant role in the Churning of the Ocean, a popular Hindu tale. In this story, the gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain the elixir of immortality. Nandi faithfully and diligently assisted in this divine task.
In another famous story, when Shiva was in deep meditation, the demon king Ravana tried to disturb him. However, Nandi stood guard and prevented Ravana from approaching Shiva. Nandi’s unwavering loyalty showcased his devotion to Lord Shiva, as he protected his beloved deity from any harm.
Overall, Nandi holds a special place in Shiva’s worship. The sacred bull symbolizes devotion, strength, and righteousness. Shiva’s affinity towards Nandi is evident through the countless depictions and stories that highlight their close bond.