Amrit Mahal Cow

ಅಮೃತ್ ಮಹಲ್

The royal cattle of the Wodeyars — bred for war and milk.

Native tract: Chikkamagaluru, Chitradurga, Hassan, Tumakuru

Milk per day (peak)

2–4 L

Milk per lactation (~300 days)

500–1,200 L

Adult weight

300–425 kg

Amrit Mahal is endangered

Every Amrit Mahal cow saved is a meaningful step in protecting this heritage line. Consider adopting one or supporting a verified gaushala in Karnataka.

Distinctive features

Coat: Grey with darker shades on the face, neck, hump, and quarters.

Athletic, compact build
Long, sharply pointed horns sweeping back and curving outward
Small, alert eyes; flat forehead
Tight skin, minimal dewlap

Temperament & utility

Originally bred by the Wodeyars to pull artillery and supply carts
Extreme endurance and speed
Modest milker
Long-lived — 18–20 years

History & lineage

Amrit Mahal ("milk hall") was established by Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar of Mysore in the 17th century — Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan later expanded the programme to supply bullocks for the Mysore army. After 1799 the British East India Company maintained the Amrit Mahal Kavals (grazing reserves), several of which are still recognised today. The breed has shrunk dramatically; Karnataka maintains conservation herds at Ajjampur and Lingadahalli.

Why Amrit Mahal matters

Amrit Mahal is endangered — every cow saved makes a measurable difference. The breed also has a story most Indians don't know: the cattle that helped Tipu Sultan move his army against the British 240 years ago.