Riding on Marwari Horse - A Rajasthani Breed of Horses
Rajasthan is famous for the Marwari or Malani breed of horses which have become status symbols and known for its inward-turning ear tips. It comes in all colors, although pinto colors tend to be the most popular.
He is a tough, brave and undeniably beautiful horse who has proven his ability to adapt and thrive in most environments. Trained highly in the art of war, it was known for its bravery on the battlefield.
Over the centuries, the Marwari horse was bred in the harsh desert climate of Rajasthan by warring Rajput clans. The outcome was a hardy, intelligent horse with a great stamina, which could thrive on little food and water.
Famous Example of Marwari Horse’s Courage in History
The Marwari horses have been used throughout History of Rajasthan as a cavalry horse by the people of the Marwar region, and was noted for its loyalty and bravery in battle.
The most famous example is the story of how the Marwari steed Chetak saved his master Maharana Pratap in the battle of Haldi Ghati in 1546. Though mortally wounded, with one foot severed, Chetak carried his master to safety by jumping over a river. Only then he gave up his life and died, according to the legend, in his master’s arms.
Maharana Pratap never forgot his loyal Chetak and when the circumstances improved, he erected a monument in his memory. This memorial still exists today in the village of Haldi Ghati, 30 km north of Udaipur.
Characteristics of the Marwari Horse Breed
The Marwari horse is a medium-sized, elegant horse. The most distinguishing features of the Marwari horse are its lyre-shaped ears, which curve inward and often meet at the tips.
Besides providing a sharp hearing, they can turn 180 degrees.It has a longish head with a broad forehead, wide-set and alert eyes and a well-shaped, rather small mouth. It is elegantly proportioned with a proud head carried on a well-arched neck. The legs are straight and sound with small and very hard hooves.
The coat of the Marwari horse is silky and often has the metallic shine of the Turkmeni horses. It comes in all colours, including piebald and skewbald. Very popular as well, are the Cremellos, which in Rajasthan are called Nukra.
Riding on Marwari Horse - Realise New levels of Joy
To ride a Marwari horse is to realise new levels of joy that demand in turn, a receptive stillness for its appreciation. It is to view the way ahead through a pair of perfectly curved ears, gateway to the heart of Rajasthan’s spiritual and ceremonial heritage.
In Rural Rajasthan the Marwari horses are commonly trained for dancing at the many festivals and marriages that occur throughout the year.
Marwari Horses on The Decline
Lack of government support to protect and promote the horse has led to a steady decline in its number.
Scattered breeders across western Rajasthan are striving hard to increase the numbers, but feel without financial assistance their efforts would not bear fruit.
