Saddling Up for Success: Navaneeth Raj’s Trailblazing Equine Legacy

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In a world where many chase conventional careers, Navaneeth Raj followed the hoofbeats of his heart. What began as a childhood fascination with horses grew into a lifelong career, and today, his name stands tall in India’s equestrian landscape.

As the founder of Bangalore Horse Riding School (BHRS) and Equine Breeding India, Navaneeth has combined his passion with innovation, leaving a powerful legacy in horse riding and equine science.

Navaneeth’s journey started with a simple love for horses, but unlike most, he chose not to outgrow that passion. Instead, he nurtured it through travel, learning, and experience. Over the last 22 years, he has explored various terrains across India and studied the behaviours of indigenous breeds and mastered the art of endurance riding, a demanding sport that tests the limits of both rider and horse.

Endurance Riding: A Ride That Made History

His defining moment came when he rode 350 kilometres in six days across the scorching ‘Thar Desert’ on a single Marwari horse, earning him a place in the India Book of Records. More than a personal achievement, it was a powerful statement proving that India’s native breeds are world-class endurance athletes.

This deep respect for indigenous horses inspired him to launch Bangalore Horse Riding School in 2014. The school has trained hundreds of students, from first-time riders to national champions. More importantly, it serves as a platform for promoting Indian breeds like the Marwari and Kathiawari, which were historically bred for war but now need revival in the world of modern equestrian sports.

Reviving Indian Breeds Through Riding Schools

Fueled by a profound respect for indigenous horses, Navaneeth established Bangalore Horse Riding School (BHRS) in 2014. The school has since trained hundreds of students, from novice riders to national champions, providing them with the skills and knowledge to excel in the equestrian world. More importantly, BHRS serves as a vital platform for promoting Indian breeds such as the Marwari and Kathiawari, which were historically bred for warfare but now require revival in the realm of modern equestrian sports.

A first-of-its-kind innovation in Equine Science

His commitment didn’t stop at riding and training, with a vision to revolutionise breeding practices in India. He established Equine Breeding India, the country's first private equine lab, which is based in Bangalore and supported by ICAR–National Research Centre on Equines (NRCE). This lab is a game-changer in the Indian equestrian ecosystem, offering advanced services such as

1. Semen Collection & Cryopreservation: Stallion semen is collected, assessed, and stored in liquid nitrogen from Warmblood, indigenous and various breeds for various equestrian sports like show jumping, dressage, eventing, endurance and Polo horse.

2. This ensures the preservation of elite bloodlines and enables wide access to superior genetics.

3. Embryo Collection & Cryopreservation: Non-surgical flushing allows embryo storage from valuable mares, enabling them to continue training while contributing to breeding programs.

4. Artificial Insemination (AI): A safer and more efficient method that reduces the risk of disease and injury while enhancing breeding success.

5. DNA Typing & Parentage Verification: Ensuring lineage authenticity, this service supports breed registration, competition eligibility, and responsible breeding practices.

Adding to its innovation, Equine Breeding India operates a mobile semen collection lab (a custom-built unit) that reaches breeders across the country, making world-class equine reproductive care more accessible than ever in remote areas.

Leadership Beyond Business

Navaneeth’s leadership extends far beyond business. He serves as the South India Convener of the Indigenous Horse Society of India and the Secretary General of the Karnataka Riding Association. Under his guidance, South India has seen a rise in regional and interstate equestrian competitions, offering more opportunities for aspiring riders.

Training Riders for the Global Stage

A committed mentor, Navaneeth believes in preparing students not just to succeed locally, but globally. “I train them here to a level where they’re confident, then encourage them to travel and compete in new environments,” he shares. His riders have gone on to win national honours and continue their training abroadspreading India’s equestrian spirit internationally.

Bangalore’s favourable climate gives BHRS an edge, allowing year-round training. Every horse at the school is treated as an individual, trained based on temperament and purpose, whether for dressage, endurance, jumping, or tent pegging. “Breeding should always have a purpose; we don’t breed just for numbers. We breed for performance, health, and legacy,” says Navaneeth

Envisioning India on the Global Equestrian Stage

Looking to the future, Navaneeth envisions India making a mark at global platforms like the 2036 Olympics, which the country is hoping to host. His dream is to see Indian riders, especially those from the South, riding  Warmblood horses bred in India on international podiums.

With a heart full of passion and a mind sharp with innovation, Navaneeth Raj has not only elevated equestrian sports in India but also redefined what it means to blend tradition with technology. His journey is more than a success story, an inspiration for anyone ready to ride toward their dreams.

 You can connect to Navaneeth Raj - equinebreedingindia@gmail.com  Phone - 9535077771