In response to a question about why the cow is worshipped, Acharya Prashant explains that the cow is an animal in which the common qualities of an animal are less pronounced. While it is an animal, it exhibits very little animalism compared to others. This is significant because liberation (mukti) means for a person to go beyond the animal within. Therefore, the cow serves as a very important symbol of an animal moving beyond its own animal nature. It has reached the limits of its animalism and displays qualities not typically found in animals, such as calmness and stability. This is why India has considered the cow special and worshipped it as "Gau Mata" (Mother Cow). The reverence is not merely because it gives milk, as buffaloes and goats also do, but they are not called "mother." The reason is the observation that although its body is that of an animal, its mind and behavior contain elements that transcend typical animal nature. For instance, when waiting for food, a cow remains patient and graceful, unlike other animals that might create a disturbance. The speaker laments that people who do not understand this make fun of the practice. He contrasts the cow with the bull, which is not considered venerable because it displays full animalism by fighting and creating disturbances. Acharya Prashant asserts that one who truly understands why the cow is revered will develop compassion for all animals. It is contradictory to revere the cow for transcending animalism while exhibiting animalism oneself by eating other animals, such as chicken. The reverence for the cow is not based on superstition or magic but on direct, impartial observation of its special nature. He explains that the cow and the Ganga river are two important symbols in Sanatana Dharma. Since our lives are filled with physical things, we need physical symbols to remind us of the transcendent. The cow is a symbol that represents the transcendence of animal nature. He concludes that both those who mock the practice and those who worship the cow without understanding the underlying reason are mistaken. Understanding this reason is crucial for having the correct attitude. The cow is special because it is an animal that seems to be trying to transcend its animal nature, displaying human-like qualities. This is why it is considered venerable. The speaker emphasizes that this is not a mystical or magical matter but a straightforward observation for a sensitive and impartial mind.