My World Tuesday

The white Amrita Mahal ox is a favourite means of transport for short distances in these parts. Farmers transport goods in these ox carts . It is a familiar sight on the Bangalore- Mysore highway . These pictures were snapped on January 1.

Families travel in these ox carts too, although it can be rather bumpy.

Amrita Mahal cows have been bred by the Maharajahs of Mysore since the 16th century. In 1617, the Maharaja reserved pastures especially for this breed of cattle by an ordinance. The cattle are always white, thin and incredibly strong. Farmers love them and value them - they say that these oxen are more faithful than dogs. In the 17th century, these oxen were used by Tipu Sultan in battles against the British, as they are not scared of gun fire.

Since they have been bred for strength, the cows of Amrita Mahal breed have very little milk, which is used for medicinal purposes.

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