The Indian Derby is India’s most prominent horse racing event, and it is the one that has the hearts of the entire nation’s fans. It is held annually on the first Sunday of February at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai and combines sport, tradition, and high-class competition.
The Indian Derby is not just a race but a cultural phenomenon that is attended by sports lovers, celebrities, and high-society individuals, and it is one of the most anticipated sporting events in the nation. The best thoroughbreds compete for the highest cash award in Indian sport at the event, and it is a much sought-after title for owners, trainers, and jockeys.
The Indian Derby is a commemoration of India’s long tradition and passion for horse racing, which gives the sport a feeling of belonging and pride for its fans. The popularity of the Indian Derby is reflected by the large betting interest surrounding the event as well. In recent years online horse race betting has been increasing in India, largely due to popular events like this.
History and Importance of the Indian Derby
The Indian Derby began in 1943 at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, and Princess Beautiful, with Edgar Britt as the rider, took the first one. It was established in line with the tradition of the Epsom Derby in England, which was initiated by Edward Smith-Stanley, the 12th Earl of Derby, in 1780. The Indian Derby has grown in prestige and stature over the years and is today a sign of excellence for horse racing in India.
Kheem Singh was a milestone jockey, being the first Indian jockey to win the Indian Derby, breaking the monopoly of foreign jockeys that had persisted since 1943. The race is held over 2,400 meters and is open only to three-year-old thoroughbreds, giving a level playing field where new talent can make an impact.
A highlight in the history of the Derby was on February 8, 1947, when a filly called “Her Majesty,” ridden by W.T. Evans, rose from a fall to finish second by a nose. This display of courage and determination is one of the most graphic moments in the history of the race.
The 2025 Indian Derby
The 83rd Indian Derby took place on February 2, 2025, at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai. The race featured 16 runners vying for prize money of more than ₹2.8 crore, with the winner getting approximately ₹1.7 crore.
The weekend was marked by the attendance of leading jockeys such as Oisin Murphy, David Allan, Tom Marquand, Christophe Lemaire, and William Lee. The HPSL Indian Derby also took place on the first and second of February.
Key Participants and Breeds
The Indian Derby comprises a vast array of participants, ranging from professional jockeys to young and upcoming horses. Some of the prominent horse breeds in India include:
- Marwari Horse
- Kathiawari Horse
- Bhutia Horse
- Spiti Horse
- Zanskari
- Manipuri Pony
- Kutchi Horse
- Bhagli Horse
- Nokkota Horse
- Malani horse
Foreign horse breeds are also present in India:
- Arabian Horse
- Thoroughbred
- Gypsy Horse
- Waler Horse
- Malopolski Horse
- Haflinger Horse
- Breton Horse
The Experience
The experience of attending the Indian Derby is unparalleled, with the excitement of high-stakes racing combined with a touch of glamour and social elegance. The atmosphere at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse is electric, with racing fans from all over the country attending to witness the action.
The stands buzz with anticipation as the horses line up, and the roar of the crowd as they thunder down the track is something to remember. As there are fashion shows, society events, and the opportunity to see leading jockeys display their skill, the weekend is a special occasion.
Impact and Sponsorship of the Indian Derby
The Indian Derby was sponsored by United Breweries Ltd. from 1984 to 2022 and was named the McDowell Indian Derby, a long and fruitful association that genuinely gave a boost to the image of the race. The sponsorship helped to place the Derby on the map as a major sporting event.
The event has traditionally had the distinction of having the highest cash award for a sporting event in India, and that itself is a statement about its significance in the sports world. Corporate involvement has broadened the base, with sponsors clamouring to be identified with an event that is a combination of sportsmanship, tradition, and glamour.
The Indian Derby remains a prestigious event in the Indian sports calendar, embodying a wealthy mix of tradition, competition, and cultural fascination. It continues to draw audiences and attention, paying tribute to the spirit of horse racing and making memories for a lifetime for all participants and spectators. For racing veterans or newcomers to the sport, the Indian Derby is an opportunity to witness the very best of competition and be involved in a highly reputed tradition.