The three-day Kathiawadi–Marwadi horse exhibition and sports festival, the ‘Kama Ashwa Show’, was inaugurated in the historic town of Wankaner in Gujarat’s Morbi district by Minister for Animal Husbandry, Agriculture and Cooperation Jitu Vaghani.
The event was inaugurated in the presence of Minister of State for Education Revaba Jadeja and several other dignitaries.
Organised jointly by the state Animal Husbandry Department and the Kathiawadi Horse Breeders Association of Gujarat, the exhibition is being held in memory of former Wankaner ruler and noted environmentalist Digvijaysinh Zala, who initiated the horse show in 1994.
The three-day programme celebrates Gujarat’s rich equine heritage, with a special focus on the renowned Kathiawadi horse breed.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Vaghani said the state government is committed to the conservation and expansion of indigenous horse breeds and announced that a new breeding centre dedicated to native horses will be established.
“A clear target will be set, and work will be undertaken in mission mode to increase the horse population,” he said.
Highlighting the qualities of Kathiawadi horses, the minister said they are known for their bravery, calm temperament and alertness, which makes them suitable for public services such as mounted police units.
He also said strict veterinary checks were conducted before the competitions to ensure animal welfare, with blood samples collected from horses prior to participation.
Out of more than 300 registrations, around 250 horses qualified to compete in various categories.
Paying tribute to Digvijaysinh Zala, Minister Vaghani recalled his significant contributions to environmental conservation and public welfare.
Minister of State for Education Revaba Jadeja said horses have played an integral role in India’s cultural and Vedic traditions, with references in epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
“A horse is considered the soul companion of a warrior, and history records legendary bonds between great warriors and their horses,” she said, while appreciating government efforts towards horse breeding and care.
Rajya Sabha MP and Wankaner royal Kesridevsinh Zala said the bravery of warriors and the history of sacrifice remain incomplete without horses.
“The Asiatic lion of Gir, Gir cow and Kathiawadi horse have given Saurashtra a distinct identity at national and global levels,” he said, calling the 17th edition of the Kama Ashwa Show a matter of pride for Morbi and Wankaner.
The event also featured an impressive performance by the Rajkot Police Mounted Unit, along with a best horse decoration competition.
A book containing detailed information on horses was released by the dignitaries on the occasion.
Several public representatives, senior officials, horse breeders and citizens attended the inaugural ceremony in large numbers, marking a vibrant beginning to the prestigious equine festival.
–IANS
