Monolithic Bull, Hampi

The Monolithic Bull, known locally as Yeduru Basavanna, is a large Nandi carved from a single granite boulder at the eastern end of Hampi Bazaar. About 8 feet tall and dark in colour, it is believed to have been set up by the Vijayanagara rulers in the early 16th century and is among the most photographed and revered monuments in Hampi.

Nandi is the bull that carries Shiva and guards his door, and stands for strength and energy. One legend tells of the sage Shilada, who longed for an immortal son and kept up his penance for years while termites ate into his body; pleased, Shiva formed Nandi from the sage's own bones and restored him to health.