Assam’s tea industry is gearing up for the annual ‘Jorhat Races’, the historical equestrian event held in Jorhat, Upper Assam. The event, started in the days of the British Raj, has been held for almost 140 years.
Horses played a part in the tea gardens over 100 years ago, and initially, the races were run by horses on different estates. These days, local ponies run the races.
The unique races start Feb 18 this year, and will end Feb 23.
Races will be held every alternate day — on Feb 19, 21 and 23 — between 12.30 p.m. and 4.30 p.m.
Unlike other equestrian events, this one is open only to local ponies.
Held in an area surrounded by the lush green tea plantations, the Jorhat Races are a much-awaited event, especially among those working on the tea estates and posted at defence establishments in Upper Assam.
The venue of the races is the Jorhat Gymkhana Club. It hosts an elite crowd during the races.
The “Jorhat Races” were started in the days when the tea industry here was in its infancy. It has since witnessed the vicissitudes of time, from the British Raj to freedom of the country.
The first Jorhat Races were held Jan 16, 1877.
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