Horse Racing Season In Mumbai

Horse racing season is always one of the most entertaining. From Ascot in England to Kentucky in the United States, the racecourse is where the rich and famous go to have a flutter. In my hometown, Melbourne, Australia, we take our horse racing so seriously that the first Tuesday in November, the day the world famous Melbourne Cup is held, is a bank holiday.

All Things Equestrian

Located in the central suburb of Mahalakshmi, Mumbai’s horse racing track is owned by the elite Royal Western Turf Club, and is considered to be one of the premier racecourses in India.

This beautiful structure was built in 1883, and still reflects the royal style of that age. It is considered to be a building of historical significance, and is an important part of architecture in Mumbai, the grandstand is even considered to be a heritage building.

The racecourse itself was actually modeled after the Australian Caulfield Racecourse, and faces the sea. It is spread over 225 acres, with the actual track measuring 2,400 metres. The racing season in Mumbai is run over winter, from November to April, when the climate is temperate. Races are usually held on Saturday, Sunday and Thursday afternoons.

Racing Towards the Finish Line

One of the final races to be held this season at Mahalakshmi will be the Maharaja Sir Harisinghji Trophy. First run in 1953, it is a sweepstakes race for 4-year-old horses, and is run over a mile. This year, the race will be held on April 14.

 

For me, horse racing is all about fashion and glamour, and the Maharaja Sir Harisinghji Trophy is no exception. Business tycoons, Bollywood actors, wealthy celebrities and socialites come from all over the country to see, and more importantly, be seen. What they wear is featured on Page 3 the next day and a good outfit can make or break an up and coming Indian designer.

Considered to be a prestigious venue in Mumbai, many have hosted parties as well as weddings at Mahalakshmi Racecourse. The manicured lawns are specially maintained for this purpose and can hold up to 2,000 people.

But this racecourse isn’t just for the glitterati, with local Mumbaikars being allowed access at specific times so that they can walk and jog on the main track. The gardens host yoga and Tai Chi sessions as well, making it one of the most loved sporting venues in Mumbai.

Some weekends, you can even find model airplane hobbyists flying their planes over the racecourse on non-race days. More than just a racing track, Mahalakshmi racecourse is a Mumbai institution.

Off to the races? MakeMyTrip offers convenient flights and trains to Mumbai.