Randeep Hooda pens emotional tribute to his beloved horse, Ranji

Actor Randeep Hooda took to social media this week to bid an emotional farewell to his beloved horse, Ranji, who passed away at the age of 23. Known for his deep bond with animals, especially horses, Hooda shared a moving tribute recalling Ranji’s remarkable life and enduring spirit.Ranji’s journey was far from ordinary. Once rejected by the army for being undersized and nearly condemned to pulling tangas after a failed eye operation, he was rescued just in time and went on to become a champion show jumper under Hooda’s care. Named after Maharaja Ranjit Singh Gaekwar due to his one functional eye, Ranji remained spirited and full of life till the very end.“He came into my life outta sheer destiny and made my life so much richer,” wrote Hooda. “He took me flying over many obstacles, sometimes with my eyes shut for fear of it, and won me many medals.”Ranji had battled Laminitis, a painful and often fatal condition in horses, but bounced back multiple times with the support of dedicated grooms and veterinary care. Hooda fondly recalled his companion’s mischievous energy, even in his final moments.“He still needed two grooms to hold him for a walk… he even tried to jump out of the stable on his last night as if he wanted to fly away. And fly away he did.”Hooda’s tribute is more than a goodbye—it’s a celebration of Ranji’s resilience and the unforgettable bond they shared.