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GARUDA Garuda is a bird creature from Hindu mythology that has a mix of eagle and human features. He is the vehicle (vahana) of Vishnu and appears on the god's banner. Garuda represents birth and heaven, and is the enemy of all snakes. In Indian art, Garuda gradually acquired more human form over the centuries and so maintained only his wings. In Cambodia, however, he retains even today the great talons and vicious-looking beak of a bird of prey. Garuda is a national symbol of India, Indonesia and Thailand. Garuda can also be shown as a big bird with semi-opened wings. He is associated with a nature spirit of Jain Tirthankara Shantinatha and an Astasena and dharma-protector in Buddhism. He protects you from the serpent, which is a symbol of the underworld and death. Garuda was born of Kasyapa and Vinata. Vinata had a fight with her co-wife Kadru who was the queen of serpents. That is why Garuda does not like serpents. Garuda is married to Unnati and has a son n

NANDI The name Nandi, which means 'happiness', designates the sacred bull belonging to Shiva, the Hindu god of creative power. In traditional Indian sculpture Shiva is often shown mounted on or leaning against the animal. As a symbol of Shiva, the Nandi represents power, virility, joy, and delight, as well as a controlled potential for destructiveness. When carved as a free-standing figure, the Nandi is always shown in a resting position that emphasizes the calmer aspect of its power. Shiva and Nandi's association in Hindu scriptures and art can be traced to very early Indian culture, where dairy farming was the most important occupation, thus explaining the importance and sacredness of the cow and bull. Vahanas symbolise or complement the energy or character of their deity. The white colour of the bull symbolizes purity and justice. Nandi images are found in abundance at Shiva temples. Nandi is a symbolism of eternal waiting, because waiting is consi