Sonepur, Bihar — This year, the renowned Harihar Kshetra Sonepur Cattle Fair has gained unexpected stars: a 24-inch stallion named Badal and a 16-inch filly called Varsha Rani. This tiny pair has emerged as the most discussed attraction at the month-long event, surpassing even the largest and most exotic breeds. Their presence has created a continuous buzz in the horse market, drawing in visitors eager to take selfies. The miniature horses, owned by Bhatun Bhagat from Saharsa district, have become the fair’s biggest sensation. Badal, six years old, and Varsha Rani, just one year old, are among the smallest horses worldwide. Visitors line up to hold them, take pictures, and share videos that are quickly spreading on social media.
“These are family to us. They’re not for sale,” Bhagat stated. “People offer lakhs, but we bring them only for exhibition. Their value can’t be measured.” Bhagat, who has participated in the Sonepur Mela since 1996, claims he has “never witnessed this level of affection or crowds” in nearly thirty years. Despite numerous offers, the owner maintains that the pair is not for sale. “They are like my children,” he added.
“This time, people are traveling from distant districts just to see them.” While the Sonepur Mela is famous worldwide for its variety of horse breeds, showcasing hundreds of horses from across India each year, this time, even the largest and most powerful breeds have been overshadowed by the appeal of Badal and Varsha Rani. Crowds overflow into the area of the fair where the small duo is kept, attracting children, families, and experienced breeders alike. Enhancing the spectacle is ‘Lukka’, a 2.75-foot-tall horse presented by Sitamarhi-based veterinarian Dr. Jitendra Yadav. Brought from the Nepal–China border, Lukka performs tricks and responds to commands, drawing enthusiastic crowds throughout the day. “In 17 years of attending Sonepur, I’ve never witnessed such excitement,” Dr.
Yadav remarked. “Lukka is small but remarkably talented. People refer to him as the fair’s superstar.” Dr. Yadav’s camp also includes Jaanbaaz, one of the tallest and strongest horses from the Bihar-UP region, and Cobra, a speed specialist known for his agility and showmanship. Visitors gather to photograph the trio, creating daily viral moments online. “We don’t bring them to sell — only to spread joy,” Yadav emphasized. “People offer crores, but love matters more.” The Sonepur Fair, which runs from 9 November to 10 December, is regarded as the world’s largest cattle fair, attracting exhibitors of cows, buffaloes, goats, dogs, and horses from across India and beyond. Yet, this year’s event distinctly belongs to the miniature marvels.