In Hindu tradition, acts of simple devotion hold immense spiritual power. Among the many rituals associated with Lord Shiva, one particularly effective and popular practice is to feed 2 rotis, jaggery, and dry fodder to 11 Nandi Maharaj.

This ritual combines seva (selfless service), dharma (righteous action), and bhakti (devotion)—offering not only spiritual merit but also tangible relief from life’s difficulties. Whether you're seeking health, marriage, career growth, or peace of mind, this sacred practice is believed to invite Lord Shiva’s blessings swiftly and powerfully.

Who Is Nandi Maharaj?

Nandi Maharaj is the holy bull who serves as the vahana (vehicle) and gatekeeper of Lord Shiva. Sitting calmly in front of Shiva temples, Nandi represents patience, strength, and unwavering devotion. Devotees often whisper prayers into his ears, believing he delivers them directly to Mahadev.

Nandi is a symbol of:

• Dharma (righteousness)

• Steadfast devotion

• Spiritual power and loyalty

Why Feed Nandi Maharaj?

Feeding Nandi—especially with natural, vegetarian items like rotis, jaggery, and dry fodder—is considered an act of sacred offering and cow protection (gauseva). It pleases both Nandi and Lord Shiva.

Benefits of This Ritual:

• Removes obstacles in life

• Resolves issues in career, marriage, or finances

• Helps in wish fulfillment (mannat poorti)

• Brings peace and protection

• Enhances spiritual merit and karma

Why These Specific Offerings?

Offering these three items reflects the balance of food, sweetness, and nourishment—physically and spiritually.

Why Feed 11 Nandis?

While feeding even 1 Nandi is powerful, offering this ritual to 11 Nandi Maharaj multiplies its spiritual energy. In Vedic numerology, 11 symbolizes alignment, intuition, and divine connection.

Feeding 11 Nandis is often done:

• To fulfill a long-pending desire (job, marriage, house, etc.)

• After a vow (mannat)

• During Pradosh vrat, Mahashivratri, or Shravan Maas

• For seeking Lord Shiva’s special blessings

How to Perform the Ritual – Step-by-Step

You Will Need:

• 22 plain rotis (2 for each Nandi)

• 500–700 grams of jaggery

• A large bundle of clean dry fodder

• Fresh water for drinking

• Optional: incense, flowers, turmeric

Step 1: Prepare With Devotion

Wake up early. Take a bath and wear clean clothes. Prepare the rotis in a peaceful and prayerful state of mind, ideally without salt or oil.

Break the jaggery into manageable chunks and ensure the fodder is clean and dry.

Step 2: Locate 11 Nandi Maharaj

You may perform this ritual by:

• Feeding 11 real bulls (in a gaushala, village, or rural area)

• Offering to 11 Nandi idols at Shiva temples

• Feeding 11 cows/bulls in the name of Nandi Maharaj

• Symbolically feeding at home using 11 images/idols (if access to animals is limited)

Step 3: Offer the Food

For each Nandi:

1. Offer 2 rotis, a small portion of jaggery, and a handful of dry fodder.

2. Chant:

   "Om Nandi Devaya Namah"
   "Om Namah Shivaya"

3. Whisper your prayer or wish into Nandi's ear (if a statue or idol is present).

4. Offer water if feeding a real animal.

Repeat this for all 11 Nandis.

Step 4: Close With Gratitude

After completing all offerings, sit quietly and thank Nandi Maharaj and Lord Shiva. Fold your hands and reflect on your prayer. Feel the spiritual energy of the ritual.

Best Days to Perform This Ritual

The ritual can be performed any day, but it is most auspicious on:

• Mondays (Somvar) – Dedicated to Lord Shiva

• Pradosh Vrat – Observed twice a month for Shiva’s blessings

• Mahashivratri – The Great Night of Shiva

• Shravan Month – Entire month considered sacred to Shiva

• Full Moon Days (Purnima) – Spiritually powerful days

For special intentions, many devotees do this for 11 consecutive Mondays or on a chosen vrat day.

Real-World Impact and Spiritual Service

Feeding animals, especially bulls and cows, is a deeply dharmic act. This ritual:

• Supports cow protection (gauseva)

• Provides nutritious food to temple or stray animals

• Encourages sustainable offerings instead of plastic or processed items

• Teaches compassion, humility, and devotion