Why is cow considered a holy animal in Hinduism?

In India, cows have been viewed as sacred for hundreds of years. They are seen to be nurturing in their nature, which has led to a sense of honor. In certain parts of the country, they are worshiped during different parts of the year. There are entire festivals that revolve around the religion that has sprung up.

While this has been maintained through several centuries of practice, Hinduism continues to be very popular. The cow is not only sacred, but is used for many other items, such as food and farm work. Some of the art work surrounding the religion show certain goddesses taking the shape of a cow. This is viewed as taking on nature, and the world as a form.

In Hinduism, cows are thought to be sacred and well respected. Especially in Nepal, cows are held in high esteem and are worshipped during Tihar. This is because Hindus are known to be vegeterians and they consider cows to be sacred and a symbol of life that should be reverened.

Cows are sacred due to their agricultural use and their calm nature. Hindus see cows as maternal figure because they are a source many products – milk (source of food), dung (as fertilizer) and urine (as disinfectant)

A product from cow known as “ghee” (clarified butter) is used for Yajna, which is the fire worship and the highest form of worship for Hindus. This further adds spiritual relevance of cows to the Hindus.