Dadhikra

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Dadhikrā, also called Dadhikrāvan, was likely the horse chosen for King Trasadasyu’s Aśvamedha, the horse sacrifice of the Rigvedic Pūru tribe. Trasadasyu had expanded east of the Indus and defeated the Anu-Druhyu and Yadu-Turvaśa tribes. The ritual was meant to strengthen his royal legitimacy and show the Pūru’s leading position among their neighbors.

Dadhikrā is treated almost like a divine figure in the Rigveda, symbolizing the Pūru’s sovereignty and the power of the Aśvamedha. In Book 4 he is invoked in three hymns, mostly by himself. Because of his speed, he is often called a falcon or hawk, and he is described as powerful and fearsome, like a skilled warrior seeking fame.

In two later hymns he is praised alongside Agni, Ushas, and the Asvins, sharing solar imagery. Some scholars note that the dawn connection may relate to the dawn ritual in which gifts are given, with horses among the prized offerings.

The name Dadhikrā may come from words meaning “thickened milk” and “to scatter,” perhaps referring to how the morning sun scatters dew or frost.