Did you know that India has five indigenous horse breeds, which include — Marwari, Kathiawari, Zanskari, Manipuri and Spiti. Maharashtra-based Indigenous Horse Owners Association, which has more than 100 members, had organised their fifth annual Marwari Breed Show, over the weekend in the city.
The show was held at Pune Race Course. More than 125 Marwari horses from across the country competed in six categories. Guests got to see horses from Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala.
Rahul Borade, vice-secretary, Indigenous Horse Owners Association, said that categories were divided into Milk Teeth Filly, Milk Teeth Colt, Two Teeth Filly, Two Teeth Colt, Mare and Stallion. The horses, who were well groomed, walked for the judges and the crowd. For the layman, it would have been difficult to judge which horse stood a better chance than the other.
What makes Marwari horses so special? With an average height of 60-64 inches, they are a rare breed from Marwar, Rajasthan, and are known for their inward-turning ear tips, regal demeanour, loyalty and courage. Originally bred in the Malani region, they are now seen throughout India. Maharashtra boasts some of the finest specimens of this breed. “Among all the indigenous horses, Marwaris are the most beautiful. They are very enthusiastic, have great stamina and can run very fast too,” said Borade.
He added that they are planning to get more refined breed horses. “These kind of horses are from good bloodline. They will go into further breeding,” said Borade.
“Marwari horses when brought together from different states will be a great sight of attraction for the viewers,” said Ajay Nensee, president, Indigenous Horse Owners Association.
“The British came to India and brought with them their own horse breeds. This in turn destroyed our own indigenous breeds like the Marwari. But nowadays, several horse aficionados are taking special effort to nurture them in the best possible way. In the past, these horses were used in battle or for long sailing trips, but now they are used for indoor tournaments and exhibitions,” Nensee added.
Borade said that about five to six shows revolving around Marwari horses are held every year across Maharashtra.
When asked what kind of care is needed for the horses to participate in a show like this, Borade replied that it’s all about bloodline. “Having said that, you need to take care of their food, foot and every small detail — just like you take care of a baby.”