The McDowell Signature Indian Derby weekend will start on Saturday, February 5 and conclude on Sunday, February 6.

Prize money worth R 2.25 crore is up for grabs. The race will be held on Sunday, February 6.u00a0u00a0u00a0

"With a prize purse of R 2.25 crore, this is arguably the most highly paid sporting payout in India," said Vijay Rekhi, President and Managing Director, United Spirits Limited, which sponsors the race.

Like always, glamour will meet gallops as well-known performers like Billy West, regarded as Europe's No 1 Freddie Mercury impersonator, will be part of the shows at the race.

The band Pussycat Dollies are also set to perform. In a first for the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC), there would be a dash of Oriental flavour with Shaolin monks descending on the racecourse. "The monks are bound to enthrall all with their agility and acrobatics," said Vivek Jain, RWITC chairman at a press conference yesterday evening.

The Indian Oaks winner, the Indian 2000 Guineas winner and Kolkata Derby winner will be racing.

Richard Hughes, champion jockey from the UK will also be in action at the event.u00a0

There is also a luxury car for the Derby sweepstakes winner.

Yet, it would be equine horsepower all the way on February 6 at Mahalaxmi.