Former champion jockey Aslam Kader, one of Indian racing`s brightest and most mercurial talents, passed away in Bangalore on Thursday after a prolonged battle with lung cancer. He was 63

To describe Aslam merely as one of India`s finest jockeys would be an understatement. He was a phenomenon — a pint-sized genius who ruled the turf with a blend of grace and aggression rarely seen before or since. Known for his electric finishes and daring race sense, he dazzled racegoers in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Kolkata, and other centres where his name became synonymous with excellence in the saddle.

Nicknamed “AK-47” — for Aslam Kader and the 47 kilograms that remained his steady weight throughout his career — his winners came in volleys, often leaving rivals shell-shocked. His record of 77 winners in a single Mumbai season remains untouched, a feat unlikely to be surpassed given today`s shortened calendars and diluted competition.



What set Aslam apart wasn`t just his timing or his courage, but the sheer power he could summon from his wiry frame. Many wondered how a man of his delicate build could generate such explosive force at the finish. When asked where that power came from, Aslam, with characteristic wit, would smile and say, “From my thinking.” Indeed, his strength came as much from his mind as from his body — a deep understanding of pace, position, and the psychology of horses.

The duel between Aslam and Pesi Shroff for the jockeys` championship during his record-breaking Mumbai season is the stuff of folklore. Lighter in weight and riding with tactical precision, Aslam often stole a march on Shroff, their rivalry giving Indian racing some of its most thrilling finishes.

Aslam`s story was as inspiring as it was poignant. Rising from the slums around Mahalakshmi to become the nation`s top jockey, he carried his fame lightly and wore his success without pretence. Yet his lack of formal guidance and sophistication sometimes saw him run afoul of the authorities, earning suspensions that interrupted his career.

After retiring, he briefly apprenticed under Rashid Byramji in a bid to become a trainer, but his restless spirit perhaps wasn`t made for the grind of stable management. He later worked with the Amateur Riders` Institute in Bangalore and at RWITC, mentoring young jockeys and sharing his vast race sense — though one always felt he deserved a grander second act.

During his glittering career, Aslam Kader rode over 1,700 winners, including 75 Classic triumphs, and was crowned champion jockey at all three major racing centres — Bangalore, Mumbai, and Kolkata. His partnerships with horses like Elusive Pimpernel and Astonish became part of Indian turf legend. His Indian Derby victories on Astronomic, Astonish, and Elusive Pimpernel remain enduring highlights, especially his thrilling duel with Willie Carson on La Bon Vie — a race that still stirs memories among turf aficionados.

To punters, he was a talisman. When Aslam was in the saddle, confidence soared — and the stands roared. His calm assurance, impeccable balance, and ability to extract the very last ounce from his mounts made him a darling of the crowd. But fame also brought unwanted attention, and at times, pressures from unsavoury quarters shadowed his journey.

He was, however, always approachable, humble, and fiercely loyal to the sport that gave him everything. Conversations with Aslam were a masterclass in race craft — sharp, witty, and full of insight. Plans were afoot to produce a web series chronicling his life and times, and though he won`t be here to see it, he has already provided ample material — triumph, struggle, and genius — for a story worthy of his name.

It is one of fate`s cruel ironies that a man who breathed racing should succumb to lung cancer. In his final years, he suffered bravely, displaying the same quiet grit that marked his riding days.

Aslam began his remarkable journey in 1979, rising swiftly through the ranks to dominate Indian racing for over two decades. His career, spanning till 2004, was a masterclass in consistency and flair. A fall at Pune late in his career perhaps hastened his retirement, but nothing could diminish the brilliance of the body of work he left behind — one that continues to inspire generations of jockeys.

If ever the history of Indian horse racing is written, Aslam Kader`s name will be etched in golden letters — a flawed yet fearless genius, a natural-born horseman who left an indelible mark on the Indian turf.

Racingpulse extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.