The lush green Mahalaxmi racetrack is all set to play host to the thunder of hooves as the Mumbai racing season (2024-25) gets underway on Sunday (Nov 24). The action-packed season, with 26 race days spread over four-and-a-half months, will attract the best equine talent of the country, thanks to the highest stakes offered (approximately Rs 15 crore, including the value of trophies). 

The prospectus for the upcoming season published by the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) makes it clear there will be six "special" race days in aid of charity, and 20 "regular" race days featuring five Group 1 races, three Group 2 races and 8 Group 3 races. Racing under the lights, which has gained more and more popularity as "family outings" with every passing year, will be conducted on 11 days in the latter half of the season.