A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1235

c5.1235

NANDI. The bull of Siva. The Vāyu Purāna makes him the son of Kasyapa and Surabhi. His image, of a milky white colour, is always conspicuous before the temples of Siva. He is the chamberlain of Siva, chief of his personal attendants (ganas), and carries a staff of office. He is guardian of all quadrupeds. He is also called Sālankāyana, and he has the appellations of Nādi-deha and Tāndava-tālika, because he accompanies with music the tāndava dance of his master.