Left side view of the Nandi statue in front of the south garbhagriha
Nandi, the Sacred Bull of Shiva
A large-sized statue of Nandi in front of the garbhagriha (inner sanctum) is common sight in Shiva temples. Because the Halebidu Holysaleswara Temple has two garbhagrihas (south and north), there are two Nandi statues, housed in the stone mantapas (pavilions) built next to each other on the east side of the courtyard. The Nandi statue shown in the image is in the stone mantapa facing the south garbhagriha.
Carved out of a single rock, this magnificent statue of Nandi is a superb work of art with great attention paid to detail. Its body is well-proportioned and perfectly curved, including a small curved hump on its back. Adorned with finely crafted jewelry all over its body, Nandi is elegantly resting on its feet with a serene facial expression.
This statue is 9ft tall and is the 6th largest Nandi in India. It is a foot taller than the Nandi (north) but not as ornate.
According to Hindu mythology, Nandi is Shiva’s vahana (mount) and the gatekeeper. The Nandi statue facing the garbhagriha symbolizes Nandi’s constant watch on Shiva. As you can see, the leisurely resting Nandi is gazing at the garbhagriha.
North Nandi Shrine Images
– North Nandi Shrine
– Right side view of Nandi
– Left side view of Nandi
– Exquisitely carved hooves and tail
South Nandi Shrine Images
– Nandi and Surya Shrine
– Surya Shrine – Outer wall
– Nandi Statue – Front view
– Nandi Statue – Left side view
– Surya, the Sun God
Mysuru
– Magnificent Statue of Nandi on the Chamundi Hills
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