Ongole cow sold for Rs 41 crore in Brazil

VIJAYAWADA: While the Ongole breed of cattle remains neglected in its home state of Andhra Pradesh, it is creating history overseas.
This breed of Ongole cattle, named Viatina-19, recently made headlines in Brazil by fetching an astonishing $4.82 million (about 41 crore) at an auction, making it the most expensive cow in the world. This sale surpassed even Japan’s famed Wagyu and India’s Brahman breeds, demonstrating the immense value of Ongole cattle when developed with proper care and scientific breeding.
This breed is auctioned at regular intervals. In one such auction in 2023 at Arandu, Brazil, Viatina-19 fetched $4.3 million. Last year, it fetched around $4.8 million.
Originally native to AP’s Prakasam district, Ongole cattle are known for their unique genetic traits, including exceptional physical strength, heat resistance, and superior muscular structure. These qualities make them highly desirable for dairy. However, while the breed struggles for attention and preservation in India, countries like Brazil have harnessed its full potential, generating enormous wealth through its fine germplasm.
Viatina-19’s superior genetic lineage has also earned her the “Miss South America” title at the prestigious Cow Champion of the World pageant.
She now holds a place in Guinness World Records as the most expensive cow ever sold. It entered the records books in 2023.