Situated near the Gujarat-Rajasthan border in the foothills
of the Aravalli mountain range, Danta Stud Farm is comprised of the royal house
of Danta, one of India’s prestigious royal families. His Highness, H.H. Mahipendra
Singh, Maharana and proprietor, is a world renowned equestrian and breeder of
India’s indigenous Marwari horses.
The beauty of the Danta countryside is fortified with
stately rivers, sprawling mountain peaks, and antique magnetism. Through the
landscape of massive rocks, inherent foliage, and isolated forests, Danta
creates an epic scene of India’s charm and history. Visitors entering Danta
encounter the old Palace with red stone edifice and historical protocol. It embraces and blends architecture of both Rajasthan
and Gujarat. Native fauna, including peacock, fox, quail and partridge, roam complacently
through the canopied tundra.
On a hill a few hundred meters away is Bhavani Villa where
Singh and his royal family reside. Bhavani Villa is positioned strategically on
a higher elevation than the old Palace. The villa embraces a woodland hillside
and is built at several levels consisting of domes, creating a breathtaking scenic
view of the Aravalli horizon. The large Bhavani Villa is also a heritage hotel
open to tourists worldwide.
The famous Danta Stud Farm is located two km from Bhavani
Villa. Marwari are the only breed stabled at Danta. Horses are kept in concrete-walled
stables covered by protective natural fiber roofs. Singh indicates, “We only keep the Marwaris. As of now I
have six mares and two stallions. All the horses are ridden and used for
breeding purpose. We prefer to sell our young stock as weanlings (after the age
of four months). We have been keeping, breeding and riding Marwari
horses for 25 years. Horses have been kept by my family for generations. The
emphasis was on riding, mainly polo and pig sticking. Breeding was not
considered seriously as horses could be purchased when required from either the
horse dealers who use to visit the princely states with their horses for sale
or from the various horse fairs, Pushkar being the most important.”
Marwari, with their charismatic disposition, unique curved
ears, and unmatched loyalty, complete the royal heritage at Danta. Due to his
legendary equestrian ancestry, Singh has a flair for only the best equines. Through
the years Danta has produced some of India’s finest Marwari. Singh has had two
favorite horses, Sajni, a mare which he recently sold, and his black stallion,
Baadal. Baadal is the top breeder at Danta and Singh’s most prized ride. “Baadal
has a fantastic temperament, rides comfortably alongside mares and is good with
carrying beginners, too,” says Singh.
Anish Gajjar, Equestrian Trainer and founder of the
Equestrian Club of Gujarat frequently visits Danta to share ideas and
interactions with Singh. Gajjar said, "Mr. Singh is a warehouse of equine
knowledge and a gentleman. One can spend hours conversing with him and learn
new things. The way he cares for his horses is visible in the way they
reciprocate with love and affection. And the landscape of Danta is one of my
favorite terrains to ride in Gujarat. A weekend in Danta sends you home as a
relaxed and unwound person."
Singh is a kind, debonair gentleman, representing centuries
of India’s royal lineage and is well known for his hospitality, expertise in
judging Marwari horses and love of Mother Earth. As a wildlife enthusiast,
Singh supports wildlife conservation and management as well as the protection
of his beloved horses, India’s indigenous Marwari.
Visitors are welcome to Danta; the old Palace and Bhavani Villa. Indian cuisine engage with romantic ambience and equine etiquette to create a relaxing, unforgettable experience. Guests can horseback ride or take a jeep excursion through ethereal winds and breathtaking terrain while discovering the legends of India’s past.
Editor's Note: We were sad to learn that his Highness, H.H. Shri Mahipendra Singh Ji Danta passed away July 16, 2023.
A. Gajjar, Equestrian Trainer & Co-Founder of the
Equestrian Club of Gujarat, India
All photos courtesy A. Gajjar
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Gina McKnight is an author & freelance writer from U.S.A
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