The Telugu states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana have some huge Nandi statues, that are quite prominent.
The Lepakshi Nandi is the most famous of all, carved out from a ingle granite rock and measures approximately 15 feet high and 27 feet long. It stands outside the Veerabhadra Temple complex, adorned with a beautifully sculpted necklace and bells.
One of the most iconic Nandis at Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple, that is believed to grow every year, so much that some of the surrounding pillars had to be removed to make space for it. Devotees perform pradakshina around the Nandi as part of their visit, making it both a ritual centerpiece and a living mystery. As per the Kaala Gnaanam of Brahmam Garu, at the end of Kali Yuga, the Nandi will reach its largest size and then come to life, letting out a mighty roar.
The Eka Sila Nandi at Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple, Pithapuram built out of a single stone. It is considered the second largest Nandi in Andhra Pradesh after Lepakshi.
Mahanandi one of the Nava Nandis, 9 Nandi temples within a 15 km radius, each around 1500 years old. All these temples cluster around Nandyal, whose name itself comes from Nandi Alaya meaning “Abode of Nandi”. It is believed to be the birth place of Nandi himself, born to a Rishi Shillada, who desired that Shiva remain with him always.
Shiva granted this in the form of a son,Mahanada, who inherited his father’s devotion and performed penance himself. Mahanada’s devotion became so profound that the temple and the region came to be sanctified in his name,Mahanandi, the abode of Shiva through the lineage of devotion.
When Shiva appeared before Mahananda, the lad asked for the boon to serve as his vahana. Shiva blessed him, saying that this place will be a holy Kshetra in your name, and you shall serve me as my vahana, as well as my close confidante.
The 1000 Pillared Temple or Veyyi Stambhala Gudi built during the Kakatiya Era, has another huge Nandi. Located in Hanamkonda, it is dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Surya and constructed around 1175-1234 CE during the reign of Rudradeva. Its polished surface and finely proportioned form make it one of finest examples of medieval stone sculpture of the Kakatiyas.
The Nandi at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ramappa Temple near Warangal, is another representative of the Kakatiya style of architecture and sculpture.