The Marwari is a rare breed of horses from the Marwar region of India, known for its inward-turning ear tips that comes in all equine colours, although pinto patterns tend to be the most popular with buyers and breeders. It is also known for its hardiness, and is quite similar to the Kathiawari, another Indian breed from the Kathiawar region southwest of Marwar. The breed was on the verge of extinction until the intervention of Maharaja Umaid Singhji in the first half of the 20th century saved the Marwari. His work was carried on by his grandson, Maharaja Gaj Singh II. Marwari was noted for its loyalty and bravery in battle.
It is believed that the Marwari horse could only leave a battlefield under one of three conditions – Victory, Death, or Carrying a wounded master to safety. Marwari Horses that have the white markings of a blaze and four white socks are considered lucky. The Marwari was distinguishable from the other breeds in terms of both physical characteristics (mainly height) and environmental adaptability. The Marwari averages between 14.2 and 15.2 hands. The facial profile is straight or slightly Roman and the ears are medium-sized and curving inward so that the tips meet also the Marwari horse can rotate its ears 180º.
The neck is arched and carried high, running into pronounced withers, with a deep chest and muscular, broad and angular shoulders. Marwaris generally have a long back and sloping croup. The legs tend to be slender and the hooves small but well-formed.
