Red Kandhari

The red Kandhari, also called Lal Kandhari, is an Indian zebu cattle breed associated with Kandhar in Maharashtra's Nanded district and the wider Marathwada region. It is a medium-sized humped breed with a mostly solid dark red to reddish brown coat, a compact body, a prominent hump, and horns that commonly curve outward and back. The breed developed as a work animal for dry farming areas, so its reputation is tied more to bullock power, thriftiness, and heat tolerance than to high milk yield.

Smallholder herds use red Kandhari cattle for ploughing, cart work, manure, and a modest amount of household milk. They fit systems based on seasonal grazing, sorghum or millet residues, and locally available fodder, but still need reliable water, shade, and foot care during the hot months. Farmers selecting breeding stock usually value sound legs, good hooves, a manageable temperament, and cows that calve regularly under low-input conditions. Outside India, buyers should confirm availability and breed identity carefully, since many animals described as red zebu cattle are not registered red Kandhari.

Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Blaze Faced, Blue Roan, Brindle, Brockle Faced, Brown, Brown and White, Dun, Gray, Grey, Highbelt, Highpark, Lineback, Mottled, Pied, Red, Red and White, Red Roan, Riggit, Roan, Silver, Solid Black, Solid Red, Solid White, Speckled, Spotted, White, White Faced, Yellow