Why there is Nandi statue outside Shiva Temple ?
An idol of Nandi is commonly seen at all Shiva temples facing Lord Shiva, signifying constant and silent conversation with the Lord. He is regarded as the Lord’s mount, is the foremost of the Ganas (followers of Shiva), and is a gatekeeper at the Lord’s door. He is most often depicted as a Divine Bull, and sometimes as having a human body with a Bull’s face. There are temples in India solely dedicated to Nandi. Devotees are often seen whispering their wishes in Nandi’s ears, since it is believed that all sincere & pure wishes conveyed to him will be granted. Sri Nandikeshwara or Nandi is a very important deity, since he’s the only witness to the creation of the Universe and all beings therein through Shiva-Shakthi. Nandi is also the embodiment of intuition and instinct. That is why it is said that we should look at Lord Shiva from in between Nandi’s horns. That way, we can perceive and receive the Lord’s grace by maximizing our instinctive & intuitive abilities.
