Three-Day ‘Kama Ashwa Show’ Kicks Off in Gujarat’s Morbi, Celebrating Kathiawadi Horse Heritage

Morbi, Gujarat | December 27, 2025 The historic town of Wankaner in Gujarat’s Morbi district came alive on Friday as the three-day Kathiawadi–Marwadi horse exhibition and sports festival, the ‘Kama Ashwa Show’, was inaugurated. The event was formally opened by Minister for Animal Husbandry, Agriculture and Cooperation, Jitu Vaghani, in the presence of Minister of State for Education, Revaba Jadeja, along with several dignitaries, horse breeders and enthusiasts. Organised jointly by the state Animal Husbandry Department and the Kathiawadi Horse Breeders Association of Gujarat, the festival is held in memory of former Wankaner ruler and environmentalist Digvijaysinh Zala, who initiated the horse show in 1994. This year marks the 17th edition of the event, which aims to celebrate Gujarat’s rich equine heritage and specifically highlight the renowned Kathiawadi horse breed. Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Vaghani emphasised the government’s commitment to conserving and expanding indigenous horse breeds. He announced plans to establish a dedicated breeding centre for native horses, stating that the initiative would follow a clear target-oriented mission to increase the state’s horse population. He also highlighted the Kathiawadi horse’s unique qualities, including bravery, calm temperament and alertness, making them suitable for public services such as mounted police units. The minister further reassured attendees that strict veterinary checks had been conducted to ensure animal welfare, including blood sampling for all participating horses. Of the over 300 horses registered for the event, around 250 qualified to compete in various categories of the festival, demonstrating skill, strength and discipline. Minister of State for Education Revaba Jadeja spoke about the historical and cultural significance of horses in India, noting their presence in epic tales such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. She described horses as loyal companions of warriors, highlighting the deep bonds between humans and horses throughout history. Rajya Sabha MP and Wankaner royal Kesridevsinh Zala also addressed the gathering, noting that the bravery of warriors and stories of sacrifice are closely tied to the role of horses. He added that iconic species such as the Asiatic lion of Gir, Gir cow and Kathiawadi horse have contributed to Saurashtra’s distinct identity on both national and global platforms. The festival included a range of competitions and displays, including performances by the Rajkot Police Mounted Unit and a best horse decoration contest. In addition, a book detailing information about horses was released during the inaugural ceremony. The event drew large crowds of public representatives, senior officials, horse breeders, and citizens, marking a vibrant beginning to the prestigious equine festival. Over the next three days, participants and visitors can expect exciting competitions, cultural programmes, and exhibitions that celebrate Gujarat’s equine legacy, paying tribute to its history, heritage, and the enduring bond between humans and horses. The Kama Ashwa Show continues to serve as a platform for promoting indigenous breeds, encouraging responsible breeding, and fostering awareness about horse welfare, ensuring that Gujarat’s horse culture remains alive for future generations. Three-Day ‘Kama Ashwa Show’ Kicks Off in Gujarat’s Morbi, Celebrating Kathiawadi Horse Heritage The historic town of Wankaner in Gujarat’s Morbi district is hosting the three-day Kathiawadi–Marwadi horse exhibition and sports festival, the ‘Kama Ashwa Show’. The event was inaugurated by Gujarat’s Minister for Animal Husbandry, Agriculture and Cooperation, Jitu Vaghani, in the presence of Minister of State for Education, Revaba Jadeja, along with dignitaries, horse breeders, and enthusiasts. Organised by the state Animal Husbandry Department and the Kathiawadi Horse Breeders Association of Gujarat, the show is held in memory of former Wankaner ruler and environmentalist Digvijaysinh Zala, who started the event in 1994. This 17th edition celebrates Gujarat’s rich equine heritage and shines a spotlight on the Kathiawadi horse breed, known for its bravery, calm temperament, and alertness. Minister Vaghani highlighted the government’s focus on conserving and expanding indigenous horse breeds. He announced plans for a new breeding centre dedicated to native horses and promised a mission-mode approach to increasing the horse population in the state. He also reassured attendees that strict veterinary checks had been conducted, including blood tests for all participating horses. Out of over 300 registrations, around 250 horses qualified for competitions in various categories. Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Jadeja shared the cultural and historical significance of horses in India, referencing their presence in epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Rajya Sabha MP and Wankaner royal Kesridevsinh Zala added that horses have been central to the bravery and history of warriors and praised the Kathiawadi breed as part of Saurashtra’s unique identity. The festival features exciting competitions, including a best horse decoration contest and a display by the Rajkot Police Mounted Unit. A book on horses was also released during the ceremony. Large crowds attended the inaugural event, making it a vibrant start to the festival. Over the next three days, visitors can enjoy competitions, cultural performances, and exhibitions, all celebrating Gujarat’s equine legacy and promoting horse welfare.