Monolithic Bull

Nandi, the monolithic bull is a huge and impressive piece of architecture. It is located in the Virupaksha Bazaar, Hampi. Local people call it Yeduru Basavanna or Nandi. Nandi is the vehicle of Lord Shiva. It is also the gatekeeper of the lord. All the temples dedicated to lord Shiva always have a Nandi statue. Some temples are purely dedicated to Nandi. According to Puranas, Nandi bull was born out of the right side of Lord Vishnu resembling Lord Shiva. He was given as a son to the sage Salankayana. It was Nandi who cursed demon Ravana that his kingdom would be burnt to ashes by Vanara(monkey).

The Monolithic Bull in Hampi was built in a two storied pavilion constructed on a raised platform. Massive rocks in the backdrop of the pavilion look very picturesque. The decorated  Monolithic Bull attracts visitors from far and wide due to its huge size. It faces the Virupaksha temple(dedicated to Lord Shiva) which is located nearby. Another attraction worth a look is the towering stone lamp with metal spikes. It is located a few steps away from the Monolithic Bull. As you walk a little further to the left side of the bull, you will find an ancient temple named Raya's Temple.