The little cow with a mighty legacy

In the vast landscapes of southern India, where ancient temples rise toward the heavens and the land hums with the echoes of history, there exists a remarkable creature- one that breaks the mould with its small size yet immense significance. Among the huge breeds of cattle that have roamed on the earth, Punganur cow stands apart. Small in stature but grand in legacy, this tiny cow has been a quiet yet essential part of Andhra Pradesh’s rich heritage for centuries.

A Breed Rooted in History

Long ago, in the royal courts of Punganur, a small kingdom in what is now Chittoor District, the kings may have once prized a rare and resilient breed of cow. Named after the land itself, the Punganur cow became friends with the region, thriving in its dry conditions. While other breeds find it hard to survive, these little cows survive easily, needing just a fraction of the food larger cows consume.

With an average height of just 97 cm and a weight of around 170 kg, the Punganur is one of the smallest breeds of cattle in the world—some are even smaller than a large dog. However, it's small size is not its weakness; rather, it is a testament to its adaptability. The breed’s compact size, crescent-shaped horns, and different coat colours—ranging from white and grey to deep brown and even red—make it as unique in appearance as it is in tolerance.

A Survivor of Harsh Lands

India’s climate can be unforgiving, with long summers that parch the land and scarce rains that make farming a challenge. Many cattle breeds struggle in such conditions, requiring vast amounts of water and food to survive. But the Punganur cow is different. It thrives where others stumble. Needing only around 5 kg of food a day, it can sustain itself on dry grass, making it perfectly suited for regions where resources are limited.

The adaptability is what has made the Punganur cow so valuable for farmers for generations. While larger cows need good-quality of grass and are expensive to take care of, this small yet sturdy creature can survive on low-quality grass without placing a burden on its owner. They are a gift from nature and can survive in some of the toughest conditions.

A Gift of Divine Milk

The Punganur cow is treasured for another reason—its milk. Though it produces only 3 to 5 litres per day, but each drop is believed to be rich in nutrients and medical purposes. Farmers have liked its milk for years for its spiritual significance.

The mighty temples in Andhra Pradesh, particularly the world-famous Tirupati Thirumala Temple, and Punganur cow milk play a divine role. The milk is used in Ksheeraabhishekam, the ritual offering of milk to deities. It is considered a pure and holy substance, symbolizing devotion and gratitude to the gods. Devotees believe it carries prayers, blessings, and the sacred energy of the land itself.

The connection to spirituality has just increased the importance of the Punganur cow, taking it from a simple farm animal to a symbol of divine service. Even now, the milk of the Punganur cow is yet used for rituals, creating a place for the cow in Andhra Pradesh’s religious and cultural traditions.

The Blink of Extinction

At one point, the Punganur cow was classified as endangered! The number of the cow was less, it seemed that the mighty Punganur cow might fade into history. But the people who understood the value to the Punganur cow tried to save it.

Efforts to preserve the breed increased, with conservationists, farmers, and temple authorities working together to protect the remarkable Punganur cows. Awareness campaigns highlighted their cultural and practical importance, and breeding programs were established to ensure their survival. The government also took steps to promote the breed, showing its significance in both agriculture and heritage.

A Legacy That Lives On

Once on the brink of extinction, the Punganur cows refused to be forgotten. With each sunrise, it continues to graze, its small hooves imprinting the earth with a legacy of toughness and devotion. It may be small, but its story is mighty—woven into the soul of Andhra Pradesh, where the past and present walk side by side.

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