Horses of the Maharajas (ARTE Documentary)
In many cultures, the horse holds a very special place, and fascinates by its’ beauty, strength and spirit. Equestrian traditions are still perpetuated by high society worldwide.
Over the centuries, the maharajas of Jaipur in northern India have established their power through their formidable armies of warriors on horseback. Today, horseback riding is a passion for these aristocrats, especially through the practice of polo, the “Sport of Kings” having its’ origin in the region. Padmanabh, the young Maharajah of Jaipur, trains in this very hierarchical sport, with the officers of the prestigious 61st Indian cavalry regiment in the Rajasthan Polo Club, owned by the royal family. Horses trained in the sport luxury are pampered before and after matches. We visited the breeder, the farrier and horse trainers, who keep these traditions of social life.