c. 1200-1250
Nandi, Sacred Bull of Shiva
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Each Hindu deity has a special animal whom they ride and who complements their identity. Shiva’s is the humpbacked Indian bull called Nandi, which means "joy." In Shiva temples, Nandi sits facing into the doorway to the sanctum so he can constantly worship and protect the god. Devotees indicate their approach to Shiva by ringing a bell over Nandi’s head.
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