Ajmer: The world-famous Pushkar Cattle Fair, once known mainly for its camels, is transforming into a full-scale livestock festival this year with the entry of cows, exotic hens, ponies, and even puppies. For the first time, animals of such varied breeds are sharing the fairgrounds, drawing both farmers and tourists in large numbers.The star attraction this year is Chinu, a six-year-old Punganur cow standing just 18 inches tall, the maximum height for this rare South Indian breed. Brought by Abhinav Tiwari from Animal Kingdom, Jaipur, Chinu has become a selfie favourite. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a Punganur cow brought to his residence in 2022 on Diwali. We want people to appreciate our indigenous breeds,” Tiwari said, adding that his display was for awareness, not sale. He also brought a miniature Scottish pony, Bholu, only 2.5 feet tall, which eats one-fourth the feed of a normal horse. While the dunes still echoed with the roars of camels and horses on Thursday, new entrants stole the limelight. Traders from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh flocked to strike deals reportedly worth Rs 15 crore. Among the new crowd-pullers were Colombian hens, each two feet tall and weighing up to 15 kg. “A pair costs Rs 50,000, and their eggs—high in nutrition—sell for Rs 250 to Rs 500 each,” said Gaurav Bhati from Ajmer, who has been breeding them for five years. Jassi from Barnala (Punjab) showcased Huskies, German Shepherds, and other puppies, priced between Rs 5,000 and Rs 6,000. “It’s my family business, and the response has been great,” he said. With bulls, goats, and buffaloes also making appearances, traders say the fair is evolving beyond camels and horses, turning into a true all-species cattle carnival.
Pushkar Fair turns true cattle showcase as mini cows, exotic hens, and puppies draw crowds | Jaipur News
