In the heart of Indian spiritual culture, Nandi Maharaj, the divine bull and vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shiva, stands as a symbol of devotion, strength, and righteousness (dharma). Devotees of Lord Shiva across India and beyond offer various forms of seva (service) to Nandi Maharaj — one such sacred and simple offering is feeding two rotis (chapatis) and jaggery to Nandi.

This traditional act may appear modest, but it holds deep spiritual meaning and immense religious significance. Feeding Nandi Maharaj is considered a pious offering, especially when done with devotion and pure intentions.

Let’s explore why, how, and when you should feed 2 rotis and jaggery to 1 Nandi Maharaj.

Spiritual Significance of Feeding Nandi Maharaj

Nandi Maharaj is not just a guardian of Shiva temples — he’s considered the first devotee of Lord Shiva. Sitting humbly in front of the sanctum sanctorum, Nandi listens to every prayer whispered in his ears and conveys it directly to the Lord.

Feeding Nandi is believed to:

• Remove obstacles in life

• Grant health and wealth blessings

• Help in delays in marriage, career stagnation, or family problems

• Fulfill mannat (vows) made to Lord Shiva

• Enhance karma and bring peace of mind

Why Roti and Jaggery?

• Roti (chapati): A humble, nutritious Indian bread made from wheat. It symbolizes basic sustenance and simplicity.

• Jaggery (gur): A traditional unrefined sugar, symbolizing sweetness, kindness, and prosperity.

This combination is not only healthy for bulls but also represents the balance of hard work (roti) and sweet reward (jaggery) — a metaphor for spiritual life.

How to Perform This Simple Ritual

Items Needed:

• 2 freshly made rotis (whole wheat chapatis)

• A small piece (20–50 grams) of jaggery

• Clean water (for Nandi to drink)

• Optional: Haldi (turmeric), flowers, or incense if you wish to pray before offering

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare With Devotion

• Make the rotis in a clean kitchen with a calm and prayerful heart.

• Keep the jaggery fresh and free from impurities.

Step 2: Visit a Nandi

You can:

• Visit a Shiva temple with a Nandi idol (symbolic offering)

• Go to a Gaushala (cow shelter) and find a bull, ideally named or treated as Nandi

• Offer to a real bull in your area as Nandi Maharaj

Step 3: Chant a Prayer

Before feeding, you may chant:

"Om Namah Shivaya"
or
"Nandi Devaya Namah"

Set a positive intention or wish.

Step 4: Offer With Humility

• Break the rotis into smaller pieces and mix with jaggery (or offer them side by side).

• Feed with your hands or place them in front of the bull respectfully.

• Ensure the area is clean and safe for the animal.

Step 5: Thank Nandi Maharaj

Fold your hands and bow gently. Mentally thank Nandi for accepting your seva and request him to convey your prayers to Lord Shiva.

When to Feed?

Feeding 2 rotis and jaggery to Nandi can be done any day, but it is especially auspicious on:

• Monday (Somvar) – Lord Shiva’s day

• Pradosh Vrat – A powerful Shiva-related fasting day

• Mahashivratri – The grand night of Shiva

• Purnima (Full Moon) – A spiritually potent day

If you're facing specific problems (like job delays, marriage issues, or mental distress), do this seva for 11 Mondays for powerful results.

Benefits of Feeding Roti and Jaggery to Nandi

Who Can Perform This Seva?

• Anyone! Whether young or old, man or woman, this ritual is open to all castes and religions, as long as it's performed with pure devotion.

• Even if you’re not a regular temple-goer, this small act can bring divine connection and inner peace.

Environmental & Social Angle

This practice also supports:

• Animal welfare – Feeding bulls and cows ensures they are loved and cared for

• Sustainability – Roti and jaggery are eco-friendly offerings, not wasteful or synthetic

• Charity – You may also sponsor this seva at local gaushalas or donate to cow shelters in Nandi’s name

Devotee Experiences

Many devotees have shared stories like:

“I did this offering for 5 Mondays, and I got a job I was waiting for 6 months!”

“My daughter got engaged soon after starting this Nandi seva. It really works if done with faith.”

Spiritual benefits vary from person to person — what matters is your bhakti (devotion).