<!-- Begin Infobox Horse. The text of the article should go AFTER this section. See: --><!-- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template talk:Infobox Horse --><!-- for full explanation of the syntax used in this template. --><!-- End Infobox Horse info. Article Begins Here -->The
Marwari or
Malani is a rare
breed of horse from the
Marwar (or Jodhpur) region of
India. Known for its inward-turning ear tips, it comes in all
equine colours, although
pinto patterns tend to be the most popular with buyers and breeders. It is known for its hardiness, and is quite similar to the
Kathiawari, another Indian breed from the
Kathiawar region southwest of Marwar. Many breed members exhibit a natural
ambling gait. The Marwari are descended from native Indian ponies crossed with
Arabian horses, possibly with some
Mongolian influence.
The
Rathores, traditional rulers of the Marwar region of western India, were the first to breed the Marwari. Beginning in the 12th century, they espoused strict breeding that promoted purity and hardiness. Used throughout history as a cavalry horse by the people of the Marwar region, the Marwari was noted for its loyalty and bravery in battle. The breed deteriorated in the 1930s, when poor management practices resulted in a reduction of the breeding stock, but today has regained some of its popularity. The Marwari is used for light
draught and agricultural work, as well as
riding and
packing. In 1995, a
breed society was...
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