The Indian Derby is an annual horse race featuring thoroughbred horses that takes place over a distance of 2,400 meters at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai. The 83rd Indian Derby is scheduled for February 2, 2025, and is considered the crowning event of Indian horse racing. The race is named after the Epsom Derby in England, which was established in 1780.
The Indian Derby has a rich history, starting in 1943 at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Bombay (now Mumbai). The event has seen both foreign and Indian jockeys win, with the first Indian jockey, Kheem Singh, winning in 1947. Betting on horse racing is legal in India, with the Indian Contract Act of 1872 allowing betting on horse races as a ‘skill game’ rather than a ‘game of chance.’
In 2025, the Indian Derby will feature 16 competitors vying for a total prize pool exceeding ₹2.8 crore, with the winner’s share approximately ₹1.7 crore. Elite jockeys from around the world will be showcasing their skills at the event. Additionally, the article lists popular horse breeds found in India, as well as foreign horse breeds available in the country.
