Hallikar

Hallikar (Kannada: ಹಳ್ಳಿಕಾರ್) is a breed of cattle native to the state of Karnataka, India. It derives its name from the Hallikar community traditionally known for their cattle rearing. It is commonly found in the traditional Hallikar belt of Mysore, Mandya, Kolar, Hassan, Banglore rural and Tumkur districts of South Karnataka. Especially Ramanagara, Magadi, Kanakapura is known to be the native belt of hallikar cattle. Calf’s bred in Ramanagar, magadi, Kanakapura are said to possess the original breed characteristics. Hence, stud bulls from Ramanagar district are used for breeding in other districts.

Long, vertical and backward bending horns, large humps in males, moderate to long height and medium size of the body, and white to grey and occasionally black complexions, are the characteristics of the breed. The bulls of this breed of cattle are known for their strength and endurance, and are mainly used for draft purposes. It is classified as a draught breed in India. Hallikar is classified as draught breed because in southern India cow was used for ploughing field.

Sub-breeds of hallikars: most of them have GREY hair coat. (RUPAYEE BANNA)

1) Sooji- mallige hallikars.- seen in Ramanagara district. Sooji mallige Ox are the most beautiful, elegant among hallikars.

2) Bettadapura - seen in pandavapura, Mandya. These are shorter in height compared to other Hallikar sub-breeds

3) Gujamavu.

4) Amaravati- they have BROWN hair coat

5) Chintamani - they have BLACK hair coat

It is the only breed in world both ox and cow can be used in ploughing. Hallikar is a breed which can work 18 to 20 hours in a day. It gives milk of 2 to 3 liters.

Prestent day uses:

1) cows for milk & breeding purpose, ploughing

2) stud bulls- breeding, bull race

3) Ox- ploughing, ox race, ox show, religious procession.

hallikars are known by the name of “SEEMA” cows in rayala Seema region of Telangana.

hallikars are also seen in Tamil Nadu-Karnataka border regions.

DODDI = Hallikars are still domesticated in hundreds in villages around forests in Karnataka,Tamil nadu borders.

It is one of the two breeds, along with Amrit Mahal, which have received the royal patronage and care from the erstwhile Maharajas of Mysore State through conservation and development. The breed is said to be the origin of Amrit Mahal cattle.

The Department of Posts, Government of India commemorated the breed by releasing a postage stamp in its name in 2000.