How is Nandini used as both a character and a symbol in the novel, Ahimsa?

Nandini is both a character and a symbol. Nandini represents the theme of Ahimsa. Nandini is Anjali’s family’s cow and in the Hindu religion, cows are sacred. Anjali’s family treats Nandini as a member of their family, and Anjali runs to Nandini whenever she is distressed. At the start of the novel, Nandini is pregnant but Anjali is worried about her pregnancy since Nandini lost her last calf. Towards the end of the novel, Nandini goes into labor but it is not going well, and she is clearly in distress and pain. Anajli runs to get Irfaan and his father - even though Anjali and Irfaan are in a fight - and they run immediately to help Nandini. Irfaan’s father delivers Nandini’s calf - with the help of methi from Paro - and Anjali names the calf Ahimsa.