Sultan Singh, one of the most influential figures in Indian thoroughbred breeding and an accomplished owner and administrator, passed away on Thursday after a valiant battle with illness. He was around 70. His passing marks the end of an era for the Indian turf, for he was a man who not only set benchmarks but quietly redefined them.

As the driving force behind the highly successful Sohna Stud Farm, Sultan Singh built a breeding operation whose results spoke louder than any promotion ever could. His got-abroad stock sparked nationwide admiration and at times even a craze, for the quality, temperament, and consistency they brought to Indian racing. From the wonder filly and Indian Derby heroine Jacqueline to Invitation Cup star Becket and the exceptional Adjudicate, a dual winner of the Indian Turf Invitation Cup, the roll of honour emerging from his pastures is long, glittering, and unmatched. The stud farm also produced other Indian Derby winners such as Velvet Rope and Enabler, each adding further lustre to Sultan`s legacy. And towering above them all stands Juliet, arguably India`s most celebrated racehorse, whose unprecedented three consecutive victories in the Indian Turf Invitation Cup remain one of the sport`s greatest achievements.

What set Sultan apart was his extraordinary eye. At Tattersalls and Goffs, he had an uncanny knack for identifying mares in foal who would go on to produce top-class performers. His selections were not just good, they were prophetic. Back home, Sohna Stud Farm maintained a roster of high-quality stallions that complemented his mares beautifully, creating a breeding ecosystem that delivered winners across every major centre in India.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sultan Singh was, at heart, a devoted racing man. He was a familiar figure at racecourses, following his horses with genuine passion and participating in the sport with the same enthusiasm he brought to breeding.

His loss leaves a void that will not be easily filled. The Indian turf owes him much,its champions, its standards, and its constant belief in what thoughtful, meticulous breeding can achieve.

Racingpulse offers its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May his legacy continue to gallop on through the champions he has left behind.