Under the Spell of Horses – India

Television report

Production
Filmquadrat.dok GmbH für SWR/Arte
2008

Directed by
Ilka Franzmann

Format
HD 1080/25P 16:9

Length
52 min.

Tech specs
Panasonic HDX 900
Sony PMW-EX 3 

Proud elegance, a silky, gleaming coat, and a graceful yet powerful build — the noble Marwari horses have been revered in India as magical beings for thousands of years.

Every November, the small, barren desert oasis of Pushkar transforms into a pilgrimage site for millions of Indians. At the Pushkar Mela, the bustling market for over 50,000 horses and camels, everyone of status in Rajasthan’s equestrian world gathers: maharajas, breeders, and horse masters all make the journey to Pushkar to trade in the legendary Marwaris.

Fourteen-year-old Sonaram has long dreamed of spending his life with horses. Now working as a stable boy, he gets the chance to buy a rare “sacred” foal for his breeder. These “Panch Kalyan horses” bear five white markings on their coats — said to bring fivefold luck to their owner. Together with the old horse master of his stud farm, Sonaram sets out across the Thar Desert to purchase the foal.

The film follows the two on their arduous journey through sand and heat, by motorbike and camel cart, from horse festivals to luxury studs. Along the way, we witness the warlike spirit of the proud Marwaris at riding competitions, learn when a mare requires an Ayurvedic massage, and discover why Indians believe they master the cosmos when they tame a horse. We see the auspicious swirls on a Marwari’s forehead and understand why Rajputs avoid black stallions.

Director Ilka Franzmann takes viewers on a visually stunning journey into the adventurous, mystical world of India’s Marwari horses. We experience the tender friendship between the young stable boy and his “sacred” foal — and hold our breath when Sonaram risks his entire future as the foal is put up for sale.

Arte Press text