Lepakshi's Nandi Bull is a large statue of a bull that serves as Lord Shiva's mount. The statue is carved out of a single stone and is over 200 years old. It is one of the largest Nandi Bulls in India, measuring about 27 feet in length and 15 feet in height.
The Nandi Bull has great significance in Hindu mythology and is considered a symbol of strength, virility, and fertility. Nandi is also believed to be the gatekeeper of Lord Shiva, and many Hindu temples have a statue of Nandi at their entrance.
The statue of the Nandi Bull in Lepakshi is particularly significant because of its unique posture. Unlike other Nandi Bulls, which are usually depicted in a sitting position, the Nandi Bull in Lepakshi is depicted in a standing position, with its front legs folded and its back legs straight. This unique posture is said to represent the animal's readiness to serve Lord Shiva.
The statue of the Nandi Bull in Lepakshi also has a fascinating history. According to legend, the statue was carved by a group of artisans who were working on the Veerabhadra Temple. The artisans were so skilled that they managed to carve the statue out of a single piece of granite. However, during the final stages of carving, one of the artisans noticed a flaw in the stone and pointed it out to his colleagues. The group of artisans decided to abandon the project, believing that a statue with a flaw would not be acceptable to Lord Shiva. As a result, the statue of the Nandi Bull was left unfinished, with only the head and front legs completed.
Despite its unfinished state, the statue of the Nandi Bull in Lepakshi remains a popular attraction for visitors to the town. Its unique posture, intricate carvings, and fascinating history make it a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Indian mythology and history.
