Mangaluru: The Mangaluru Horse Riding Academy organised a special “Freedom Ride 2026” in the city on Friday to mark India’s Independence Day, paying tribute to Dakshina Kannada freedom fighter Kedamadi Ramayya Gowda.
The patriotic horseback ride brought together equestrian tradition and the spirit of nationalism as riders travelled through the heart of Mangaluru. The event was organised to honour the sacrifices and contributions of freedom fighters while offering a distinctive way to commemorate Independence Day.
Ride dedicated to freedom fighter Kedamadi Ramayya Gowda
The “Freedom Ride 2026” was dedicated to Kedamadi Ramayya Gowda, a freedom fighter from Dakshina Kannada whose contribution to India’s freedom struggle was remembered through the special event.
By dedicating the ride to a local freedom fighter, the organisers sought to highlight the importance of remembering personalities from the region who contributed to the country’s struggle for independence.
The event combined a tribute to the freedom movement with the traditional sport of horse riding. The sight of horses and riders moving through the city added a distinctive character to the Independence Day celebrations.
Six horses participate in patriotic ride
A total of six horses participated in the special ride. The event was led by Avinand Achanahally, followed by riders Akshamya, Manoj, Huda, Nikshep, Vihaan and Nithyananda Siddi.
The riders took part in the horseback procession as a mark of respect for the nation and its freedom fighters. Their participation also showcased horse riding as an activity that can connect sporting and equestrian traditions with public celebrations.
The ride moved through the heart of Mangaluru, allowing members of the public to witness the special Independence Day initiative.
Equestrian tradition meets Independence Day celebrations
The Freedom Ride was not only a sporting activity but also a symbolic tribute to the country’s journey towards independence.
Horse riding has a long association with tradition, discipline and ceremonial occasions. By incorporating the activity into the city’s Independence Day celebrations, the Mangaluru Horse Riding Academy highlighted how traditional sporting practices can be used to create public awareness and commemorate important national occasions.
The presence of riders on horseback through the city’s streets also offered residents a different visual experience during the Independence Day period.
The event aimed to encourage people to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and reflect on the values associated with the freedom struggle, including patriotism, courage and service to the nation.
Tribute to the freedom movement
Independence Day celebrations across the country traditionally focus on remembering the people who fought for India’s freedom and recognising the responsibilities that come with independence.
The Mangaluru Horse Riding Academy’s initiative added a local dimension to these celebrations by remembering Kedamadi Ramayya Gowda and bringing the tribute into public spaces.
Such events also provide an opportunity to introduce younger generations to the region’s history and the individuals who played a role in the freedom movement.
For the riders, the occasion was an opportunity to combine their passion for horse riding with a patriotic message. For the public, the procession served as a reminder of the importance of preserving the memory of those who contributed to India’s independence.
A distinctive Independence Day initiative
The “Freedom Ride 2026” added variety to the Independence Day programmes held in Mangaluru. Instead of limiting the commemoration to conventional ceremonies, the academy used an equestrian procession to convey its message of patriotism.
The participation of the riders and horses through the city helped bring the celebration closer to the public while showcasing the academy’s equestrian activities.
The initiative also underlined the role of community organisations in commemorating national occasions in creative ways. By combining a sporting tradition with a tribute to a local freedom fighter, the academy created an event centred on both heritage and patriotism.
The Freedom Ride ultimately served as a reminder that Independence Day is not only an occasion to celebrate India’s freedom but also an opportunity to remember those who made sacrifices for the country. Through its tribute to Kedamadi Ramayya Gowda, the Mangaluru Horse Riding Academy sought to keep the memory of Dakshina Kannada’s freedom fighters alive while celebrating the nation’s Independence through a unique equestrian tradition.