The Deccan Derby 2025, presented by the Race2Win Foundation, unfolded in spectacular style at the Hyderabad Race Club on October 5, transforming the grounds into a breathtaking celebration of sport, style, and purpose. Malaika Arora Walks at Race2Win Foundation’s Deccan Derby 2025 for Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna. The event seamlessly married the thrill of horse racing with the sophistication of high fashion, creating an unforgettable evening that dazzled Hyderabad’s social and cultural elite.
Commanding the spotlight was Malaika Arora, who stole the show as the showstopper for celebrated designer duo Rohit Gandhi + Rahul Khanna, as they unveiled their exquisite couture collection titled “Fashion in its Purest Form.” Dressed in a striking ensemble that embodied the designers’ signature modern glamour, Malaika exuded elegance and confidence as she took over the runway.
Adding to the star-studded affair were Regina Cassandra, Rohit Khandelwal, Avantika Mishra, Parvathy Nair, Nyra Banerjee, Ekta Rathod, Akshara Gowda, Sandeep Saroj, Viraj Ashwin, Sai Ronak, Srinath Maganti, and Rashi Singh, who lent their charm and charisma to the evening, turning it into a dazzling fusion of cinema, sport, and couture.
The highlight of the night was the unveiling of Astride — a stunning couture collection symbolizing movement, control, and allure. Inspired by the raw energy of racing and the decadence of moonlit soirées, the collection reflected the elegance of those who command the moment. Sculpted silhouettes mirrored gallops and strides, while velvets, metallic silks, and satins shimmered like race-night trophies. Adorned with sparkling embellishments and painted in midnight blacks, silvers, golds, and rich jewel tones, Astride celebrated power, sensuality, and the magnetic beauty of motion.
Earlier in the day, the Derby hosted a thrilling lineup of races, including the Race2Win Foundation Sponsored Race, followed by a special address by the Hyderabad Race Club Chairman and the unveiling of new community development programs by Y. Gopi Rao, Founder of Race2Win Foundation.
“The Deccan Derby 2025 was a spectacular success,” shared Gopi Rao. “With Malaika Arora as our radiant showstopper and the mesmerizing showcase by Rohit Gandhi and Rahul Khanna, we celebrated racing, fashion, and philanthropy in a way that truly resonated. This event not only highlighted the grandeur of the Derby but also strengthened our mission in equine welfare, early education, and community upliftment.”
Designer Rahul Khanna added, “Our vision was to create an evening of pure fashion as a celebration after the races. Hyderabad has always welcomed us with warmth, and this showcase allowed us to blend elegance, culture, and the spirit of the Derby.”
Reflecting on the experience, Malaika Arora said, “I had such a fabulous time at the Deccan Derby 2025! The energy, the people, and the fashion were all incredible. Wearing Rohit and Rahul’s creation was the perfect mix of glamour and grace — and it feels even more special knowing it supports such meaningful causes.”
The night culminated in a spectacular finale, as the designers’ creations graced the runway one last time — marking the Deccan Derby 2025 as not just a race, but a celebration of passion, purpose, and pure elegance.
