MountIconography
Nandi: FAQ & Sources
नंदीNandi is the sacred bull who carries Shiva and guards the gate of Kailash as chief of Shiva's ganas. Born to the sage Shilada through Shiva's boon, he kneels before the shrine in every Shiva temple, where devotees whisper their wishes into his ear.
Borne byशिShiva
Frequently asked questions
What is the name of Shiva's bull?
Nandi, Shiva's mount, gatekeeper of Kailash and leader of his ganas.
Why does Nandi face Shiva in temples?
Nandi's constant gaze at the linga is the model of a devotee whose mind is always turned to God.
Why do people whisper in Nandi's ear?
Devotees believe Nandi, Shiva's closest servant, will carry their prayers to Shiva.
Did Nandi curse Ravana?
Yes. The Uttara Kanda says that when Ravana mocked him, Nandi cursed that monkeys would destroy Lanka.
Sources
- Linga Purana, Purva Bhaga
- Shiva Purana, Shatarudra Samhita
- Valmiki Ramayana, Uttara Kanda
- Mahabharata, Anushasana Parva
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