The Indian Racing Carnival is set to take place over two action-packed days on Saturday, April 5, and Sunday, April 6, 2025. This prestigious event is headlined by its primary sponsor, Zavaray S. Poonawalla, a stalwart of Indian horse racing and a renowned breeder. Co-sponsoring the carnival is the Horse Power Sports League (HPSL), an equestrian initiative that merges traditional horse racing with entertainment and lifestyle experiences. The event promises an exhilarating blend of high-stakes racing, engaging activities, and an immersive fan experience. Attendees can explore merchandise stalls, participate in interactive games, and enjoy a selection of food and beverages. The gates open at 4:00 PM, with complimentary entry extended to ladies and members. With a prize pool exceeding that of the HPSL Indian Derby, this third edition of the carnival is expected to be the most exciting yet.
The Mumbai Racing Season 2024-25 commenced on November 24, 2024, under the auspices of the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC). Spanning 26 race days at the historic Mahalaxmi Racecourse, the season showcases a mix of afternoon and evening races, featuring both emerging talents and experienced champions. With total prize money of approximately ₹21 crore, the competition is intense. The calendar highlights prestigious races, including the JSK1 Indian 1000 Guineas (Gr.1), the HPSL Indian 2000 Guineas, the Villoo C. Poonawalla Indian Oaks (Gr.1), the HPSL Indian Derby (Gr.1), and the Poonawalla Breeders’ Multi Million (Gr.1). The much-anticipated Indian Racing Carnival serves as the grand finale, ensuring a spectacular conclusion to the season.
Race enthusiasts can expect thrilling performances in major contests such as the C.N. Wadia Gold Cup (Gr.2), carrying a purse of ₹5 million, the Maharaja Sir Hari Singh Ji Trophy (Gr.3) with ₹3.5 million in stakes, the Zavaray S. Poonawalla Sprinters Challenge offering ₹3.5 million, and the Poonawalla Stud Farms Auction Sales Stakes, which also boasts a ₹5 million prize. Alongside the high-intensity racing, spectators can enjoy live music, premium dining experiences, and exclusive after-parties. The event will also be a fashion hotspot, where the best-dressed guests will be recognized with awards for Best Dressed Male, Best Dressed Female, and Best Dressed Couple.
The 2024 edition of the carnival witnessed breathtaking victories. In The Rapier Million, ARIYANA STAR, guided by jockey A. Sandesh and trained by Aman Altaf Hussain, clinched first place. SUPERNATURAL, with P. Trevor in the saddle and P. Shroff as trainer, dominated the Maharaja Sir Hari Singh Ji Trophy. The C.N. Wadia Gold Cup was secured by JULIETTE under the expert handling of jockey C. S. Jodha and trainer Karthik Ganapathy. The Poonawalla Stud Farms Auction Sales Stakes saw SANTISSIMO, ridden by P. Trevor and trained by P. Shroff, claim victory in an impressive time of 1:22:508.
This year, the Indian Racing Carnival is set to elevate the excitement with night races under the floodlights. The combination of top-tier equestrian competition, a lively social atmosphere, and a touch of glamour makes this an unmissable spectacle. Racing enthusiasts, fashion enthusiast, and partygoers alike will gather to witness the finest horses and jockeys battle for glory, making this a defining event in India’s horse racing calendar.
