- Marwari -

The Marwari is an ancient breed which, despite its small stature and height, should not be classified as a pony breed. These horses evolved in the state of Marwari, and possibly in northwestern India near Afghanistan. Their exact origins are not known, but it must have developed along similar lines to its neighbor, the Kathiawari, and it has a high percentage of Arabian blood. The Marwari also has similarities to the old Turkmenian breed.

The Marwari became the warrior horse for the Rathores, who were rulers of Marwar, and were using selective breeding as early as the 12th century. They were considered to be the finest horses for centuries, and were highly prized. It was said that the Marwari horse, even if injured during battle, would not fall down until it had carried its rider to safety. It was also said that they would stand guard over their riders if they fell off or were injured during battle. Many legends surround the exploits of the Marwari horse, and all of them demonstrate its inordinate bravery and loyalty. During the reign of the Moghul Emperor, Akbar, the indomitable Rajput warriors formed the Imperial Cavalry, employing over 50,000 horses, the vast majority of which were the Marwari.

They remained popular for many years and were even used during the First World War, before falling into decline. By 1930, the breed was nearly extinct and was only saved by the efforts of Maharaja Umaid Singhji, who bought some good Marwari stallions and sent them to breed with the best Marwari mares he could find. Numbers have since partially recovered and there is an ongoing effort by the Indian government and the enthusiastic Marwari Breeders Association to preserve them.

In appearance, the Marwari is quite distinctive and is a noble looking horse of some quality. They have a slightly heavy head, topped my extremely in-turned ears that are a hallmark of the breed. They are generally well build and strong, with a muscular neck of good length. The back is compact and there is good depth through the firth. The shoulders are reasonably sloping and the chest is deep. The hindquarters are muscular, and the legs strong, and tough with dense bone and hard feet. They are occasionally cow hocked. they range in color from bay, brown, chestnut, and pinto, and are generally under 14.3 hands high.

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