Some addictions are unhealthy.

Mine started in March 2025 — and it has given me nothing but happiness.

My addiction is polo.

How It All Started

I was first introduced to polo through Allan Shaun Michael from Jaipur.

Like many things in today’s world, it began on Instagram. I reached out to him, not expecting much. He was the only one who responded to my follow-ups — and that single response changed everything.

Allan introduced me to Major ARS Warraich, affectionately known as Harry.

Over the years, Harry and I have developed a close bond. Allan too has been instrumental in my polo journey — advising me both on and off the field. From understanding the game to positioning myself better for shots, their guidance shaped my early days in polo photography.

Looking back, I’m genuinely thankful to Allan and Harry. Both unknowingly gave me an addiction that came with no negative side effects — only growth and happiness.

Polo Is Not Just for the Elite

Many people think polo is reserved only for the elite.

But you’d be surprised.

In cities like Delhi and Jaipur, anyone can walk into the polo grounds and watch a game. There’s a certain openness about the sport in India that people don’t talk about enough.

In Delhi, the finals often begin with a performance by the Rajputana Rifles, the oldest rifle regiment in India. The atmosphere immediately feels historic.

There is a ceremonial toss.

Then the game begins.

Understanding the Game

A polo match is divided into four to six chukkers, depending on the level of the tournament.

Interestingly, the word “chukker” comes from the Indian word “chakkar,” meaning a round — a reminder of the sport’s deep historical roots in India.

Polo is always played between equals.

Each player has a handicap — basically a measure of skill level. The total handicap of one team must equal or closely match the other. That’s how the game stays competitive and balanced.

In India, the highest goal matches usually go up to around 14 goals.

It’s not just speed.  It’s strategy,  calculation and positioning.

And as a photographer, that makes it gold.

From Photography to Videography

I began with photography.

Slowly, I transitioned into videography as well. My polo reels have crossed thousands — in fact, lakhs — of views.

There is something about polo that translates beautifully into motion. The thunder of hooves. The swing of the mallet. The intensity of ride-offs.

The fact that the Delhi polo ground is just 20 minutes from my home makes it dangerously easy for me to attend games whenever they happen.

I follow La Polo, which regularly updates schedules of matches happening in Delhi and across the country.

Apart from Delhi, major polo hubs include Jaipur, Jodhpur, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad

Even North Eastern circuits host competitive matches.

What Polo Has Done to My Photography

Polo sharpened my instincts.

I use my 200–500mm lens extensively during matches. The sport demands Fast reaction time, Anticipation of movement, Clean composition in chaotic situations, Tracking at high speeds.

This helps in capturing moments like Ride-offs, The perfect swing shot, Goal celebrations, Tactical positioning thereby improving my sports photography tremendously.

During finals, you’ll also see a rush of photographers trying to get the perfect frame during the toss and post-match celebrations. It becomes its own mini competition.

Polo forces you to predict action before it happens.

That discipline has improved my work across all sports.

The End of the Match – A Sight to Remember

In Delhi, many games conclude with the magnificent display by the 61st Cavalry of the Indian Army.

It is the only active horse-mounted cavalry regiment in the world.

Watching them perform chants and formations on horseback is a reminder that polo in India is not just a sport — it’s heritage.