Chapter 1: Trotting through Time

The Beginning of my Journey with Horses

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As far back as I can remember, my heart has always had a special place for animals. Whether it was my unwavering love for dogs or the inexplicable charm of farm life at my grandparent's place, my connection with animals has not only shaped my identity but has become an indispensable part of who I am today.

My childhood memories are filled with visits to Rampura Phul, a small village in Punjab where my Nani and Nana (maternal grandparents) resided. My grandparents’ house was the ultimate holiday destination for me, but frankly, it was less of a house and more of a sanctuary which probably explains my eternal obsession with the place.

From cows and hens to turkeys and rabbits, you would find all types of farm animals there. And amongst all the creatures, there was one in particular that truly captivated my attention- a horse.

My grandfather, the former owner of one of India's leading stud farms, had long retired, and the only remnant of his inspiring career was a retired thoroughbred, Mastan, who now resided in a field just across from our home.

In his last few years of retirement, Mastan thrived in the simple pleasures of an open field and the devoted care of the farm's workers.

There was something about this horse that deeply fascinated me. I vividly recall the tranquil evenings spent at the farm, when I would accompany my beloved Nani (grandmother) on her leisurely walks to the field. As she wandered the field, I would settle myself onto the Manja (a traditional outdoor bed) in front of the paddock, watching Mastan graze in the open while repeatedly quizzing his groom with a million questions about him. Even then, as a mere 5-year-old child, simply watching him was a site to behold.

Flash forward a few years into my childhood. I am now 7 years old and one of my dear friends proposes that we spend a random Sunday evening going horse-riding.

Her mother had heard of a barn in the city and was eager to take us. But that didn’t remotely match the level of excitement I felt as I mounted onto the 8-year-old pony- Jack. I also vividly remember dismounting the gentle creature to reward him with carrots after my ride. But the 45 minutes between when I got on and got off Jack is something that I fail to remember to this day. The intense concentration with which I rode that day, probably explains why my consciousness failed to register this special memory. Nevertheless, I don’t doubt for a second that it was a magical experience.

And from there forth an addiction was born.

Image: Taken shortly before my first ride at the stables with my friend

I began visiting the stables every Sunday for a group lesson with my friend. The “every Sunday”, however, soon changed to “every Weekend” which became “4 times a week”, until 6 out of 7 days of the week involved visits to the stables. If the reins of choice were mine to hold, I would have gladly made daily visits, but the horses too deserved a day of rest- which probably explains my inexplicable hatred for Mondays, the one day when I was forbidden to visit the stables.

Image: Group lessons and in-house competitions on Sundays

At the age of 10, I began taking my passion more seriously and started competing. Ever since I’ve competed in innumerable horse shows across India and have ascended to the ranks of a national-level dressage rider. Over a nearly decade-long journey of riding, much has transformed, yet one thing has always remained constant—my enduring connection with horses.

Image: My first Equitation competition in 2017 with club-horse Shadow

Hooves & Tails is an amalgamation of the incredible learning experiences and knowledge I have gained from this sport. A platform that I will share with all of you, as I navigate the twists and turns of this remarkable pursuit- for many a sport, but for me a lifestyle.

Until the next chapter,

Suhana