Nandi - Vehicle of Shiva (Tribal Statue from Bastar)

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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.

How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?

Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.

Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.

• The best and simplest way to maintain a brass statue is to clean it at least twice a week using a soft cloth or cotton rag. This will prevent dust from accumulating on the surface. Dusting is especially important for outdoor statues since it is prone to dust accumulation much more than indoors.

• To give a natural shine and luster to the statue, you may apply coconut or olive oil using cotton on every portion. You can use a toothbrush to get to the small crevices but do not be too harsh. This will make the brass statue appear fresh and new with a polished look.

• In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth. 

Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.