Nandipada, or hoof of a bull, resembles the Brahmi letter ‘ma.’
It frequently occurs in inscriptions in all parts of India. It is part of
epigraphy in Hinduism.
‘Ma’ the first letter of the word ‘mangala’ means auspicious
or festive.
The symbol is also found in Buddhist monuments.
It is found on the arches and toronas in ancient structures.