The bull Nandi

The bull Nandi is the faithful mount of the Hindu deity Shiva. In southern India, a large sculpture of Nandi would usually be placed in front of the main sanctuary of a temple to Shiva. It would face toward the sanctuary, so that Nandi could gaze adoringly at the representation of his master enshrined there. Because of this orientation, worshippers entering the temple compound would approach the sculpture of Nandi from behind.

Here Shiva's bull, which weighs 4,000 pounds, is depicted in a kneeling position and adorned with garlands, strings of bells, an elaborate blanket, and other decorations carved in the stone. In the temple, it would have been wreathed in real flowers and fabrics.