In Hinduism, the Cow is a symbol of abundance, the sanctity of life, and selfless giving.   Respected for its feminine nurturing qualities, its labor in the fields provides for a good harvest, its dung is a source of fuel and fertilizer, and the milk of the Cow provides not only sustenance in a primarily vegetarian society, but milk itself is revered as sacred and used extensively in ceremonies. Krishna is often portrayed as caring for Cows.  It is illegal to kill a Cow in India.

On September 21, 1995, many of the statues of Shiva all over India suddenly began drinking milk offered by devotes.  Some drank bucketfuls of milk.  The miracle lasted only that one day.