Nandhini, is a female Hindu deity and is also known as Nandini or Nandni Mata. She is called the Hindu Cow Goddess or the Sacred Cow of Joy. She is Kamadhenu’s (Supreme Cow Goddess) good natured daughter. As a holy cow, Nandhini bestows joy. It is believed that with her merry moo and happy smile, she will grant you any wish one may ask her. Sage Vasishtha, her owner adores her for the magic qualities she has. In Hindu mythology, another name for Durga is Nandhini meaning ‘daughter’.
Nandhini is a word derived from Sanskrit, meaning ‘delight’, ‘pleasing’, ‘happy’ or ‘to rejoice’. In the literal sense it means who brings delight or joy. Nandhini also has reference to a daughter who brings joy to the whole family. It also refers to Goddess Parvati’s eight eternal associates. Nandni Mata’s name appears in many Vedic hymns and is worshipped mostly during the 9 days of the Navratri festival. Her name reflects in Chapter 11, in the Devi Mahatmyam Durga Saptasati.
In the Vagadi language she is known as Nandore Ma. The Nandni Mata Temple is dedicated to her in Rajasthan in the Banswara District. This Hindu deity is considered as the Mahakali Pavagadh or Pavagh Devi of Gujarat. ‘Garba’ the popular Adivasi folk dance is dedicated to Goddess Nandini Mata.
As per legends, she was Yashoda’s daughter during the Dvapara Yuga (the third of the four yugas coming after Treta Yuga). During the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya, the great sage composed a song (Mahishasura Mardini) in praise of Goddess Nandhini, the manifestation of Goddess Durga, the destroyer of demons.
