During the
churning of the oceans, when halahala (a deadly poison) emerged, lord Shiva
undertook the task of drinking it in order to protect all life on earth. while
he was doing so, a few drops spilled. Seeing this, Nandi, Shiva’s vahana
(vehicle) followed in his lord’s footsteps and drank those drops. Devotion,
self-sacrifice and bravery is what Nandi stands for. His loyalty rests with
Shiva and just like him, Nandi is always ready to help those who call on him.
This brass
Nandi with Shiva linga perfectly embodies the bond between the two. It is a rare
idol, since in most of the images Shiva is shown in anthropomorphic form while
here, he is shown as a linga, flanked by a naga. Nandi is sitting comfortably,
one leg tucked under his body while the other is raised. From his horns to his
legs, his entire body is jeweled. His round hump is decorated by the artist
with a floral motif. The entire image shows immense attention to detail- the
hoof in the front is designed smoothly and the tail of Nandi can be seen sandwiched
between his body and hind legs. Made in brass, this image of Nandi appears
quite naturalistic thanks to its minute all-around carvings.
The Divine Mount: Nandi and the Shiva Linga
This exquisite brass statue captures a profound and sacred image in Hindu iconography: Nandi, the celestial bull, resting serenely with the Shiva Linga balanced upon his back. Nandi is not merely a vehicle for Lord Shiva, but a devoted devotee in his own right, embodying unwavering loyalty, strength, and dharma. In Hindu mythology, Nandi is often depicted as the chief of Shiva's ganas (attendants) and is considered the guardian of sacred places. His presence signifies purity, protection, and the unwavering devotion required to approach the divine.Craftsmanship and Symbolism
Handcrafted in India, this statue is a testament to the skill of traditional artisans. The intricate detailing on Nandi's adornments, from the ornate saddle to the delicate patterns on his forehead and legs, speaks of meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of devotional art. The brass medium itself lends a timeless quality, its warm luster evoking the sacred glow of ancient temples. The Shiva Linga, an aniconic representation of Lord Shiva, symbolizes the formless, infinite, and omnipresent nature of the divine. It is the focal point of worship for millions, representing cosmic energy and creation. The coiled cobra, often seen around the Linga, represents Kundalini energy, the spiritual power that lies dormant within all beings, waiting to be awakened.A Sacred Presence for Your Home
The presence of Nandi carrying the Shiva Linga is a powerful symbol of devotion, spiritual ascent, and the harmonious union of the divine and its vehicle. It is believed that placing such an idol in one's home or place of worship invites blessings of peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth. In ancient tales, Nandi's roar could shake the very foundations of the universe, showcasing his immense power, yet he is always depicted with a calm and focused demeanor, illustrating perfect control and devotion. This sculpture embodies that very essence, offering a sense of tranquil power and spiritual grounding. It serves as a constant reminder of the importance of faith, service, and the pursuit of higher consciousness. Each element, from the noble posture of Nandi to the sacred Linga and protective serpent, contributes to a rich tapestry of spiritual meaning, making this piece a truly significant addition to any collection of religious art.
Nandi: The Symbolic Representation of Strength and Devotion in
Hindu Mythology
Nandi is the guardian deity of Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva.
The statue of Nandi, the Bull, is generally seen in a sitting
posture on a raised platform with discipline and calmness at the
entrance of the temple of Lord Shiva as the guard or doorman. He
patiently waits for the Lord while gazing at the sanctum,
demonstrating that individual souls should always be focused and
surrendered to the Supreme Lord in all circumstances, without
having any material desires. He symbolizes loyalty, truth, and
righteousness, thus, preserving Dharma. Watchfulness and
virility are the most important qualities of the Bull, that make
him the perfect vaahan for Lord Shiva, the destroyer of the
material world, to ride. The alertness of Nandi tells us the
importance of being in the present moment (mindfulness). He is
the head of all the attendants (Ganas) of Lord Shiva and is also
considered to be the guardian of four-legged animals.
Having a round body, a hump appearing as a huge mountain, and
heavy shoulders signify his strength and capacity to bear a
heavy load. Being very dear to the Lord, the divine Bull is
always decked with fascinating ornaments on his back, neck, and
sharp horns.
What is the significance of Nandi?
Nandi is the chief of 18 Siddhas and is considered the granter
of boons to the devotees, and also symbolizes justice, faith,
and purity. His mind completely absorbed in the service of
Mahadeva depicts that he is the timeless wisdom and the path to
the Absolute Truth, which means the Guru within. Without the
mercy of the Guru, one cannot receive the grace of the Supreme
Lord. Since Nandi is the eternal servant of Lord Shiva, one who
tries to come closer to Lord Shiva and take his shelter, he
should approach him by pleasing Nandi first.
Why does Nandi sit in front of Shivling?
Nandi is always depicted sitting outside the sanctum of Lord
Shiva, facing the Lord. He patiently waits for his master
outside the temple as if ready to serve the Lord whenever he
wants his service. This shows how Nandi always remains absorbed
in the thoughts of Lord Shiva and is eager to please his master.
A practicing devotee can learn from the attitude of Nandi that
the only qualification needed to please the Supreme Lord is his
sincerity and dedication to serve Him in all circumstances.
Is it good to keep Nandi statue at home?
Lord Shiva is very dear to Nandi and similarly, Nandi is very
dear to Lord Shiva. Keeping the statue of Nandi at your home
altar means attracting the mercy of Lord Shiva in your life. It
will bring all fortune and auspiciousness. However, keeping the
statue of Nandi alone may not fulfill the ultimate purpose.
Nandi, being an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, does not like to
stay in a place where there is no worship of the lord. Thus, if
you want to please Nandi, you should keep his statue along with
the deity of Lord Shiva (Nandi gazing at the lord).
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