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.

To see more pictures from all over the world, please click on http://showyourworld.blogspot.com

Today's Flowers- First of 2011

The Orange Trumpet vine Bignonia venusta aka Pyrostegia ignea flowers during January in these parts. It is called the Sankranth Bel as it flowers during the festival of Sankranth which falls on January 14. This vine has been planted by my neighbour, but it covers my bitterlemon tree every January with its dazzling orange blooms.

The tubular flowers contain sweet nectar, which attracts bees and small birds.

The yellow Poinsettia has also started blooming now in my garden. It is a month late!

My thanks to the team of Today's Flowers . I had a lot of fun contributing to the meme, and visiting other blogs.

http://flowersfromtoday.blogspot.com