Cow / Bull
In Religion and Mythology
The celestial Kamadhenu
The cow / bull occupies a special place in Hindu culture. The reverence of the animal has been one of the central themes of Hinduism, since ancient times. The animal is equated to one’s mother (hence the expression ‘ Gaumata’ . In Hindu mythology, Kamadhenu , the wish-fulfilling celestial cow, is said to be the mother of all Gods. It is believed that she could grant any wish for the true seeker.
Scientific Name: Bos taurus indicus
Common Name: Bull (male) / Cow (female), Gai (Hindi), Maddu (Tamil), Gau (Sanskrit)
Distribution: Throughout India
IUCN Conservation Status: Domesticated