Horse-riding gave a big boost to my confidence: Ayli Ghiya

Ayli Ghiya's love for dance is evident from her social media videos and there are few that can shuffle on the dance floor as well as she can. However, since a few years ago, the Ek Number Super and Dry Day actress has found another activity that she's fallen in love with. The youngster took to horse-riding in 2018 and is taking her skills higher with every riding session.Posing exclusively for Pune Times, Ayli speaks about her love for horse-riding. Excerpts:


'Riding has changed my lifestyle'
Ayli says that while she was always fascinated with horses since a young age, it was only a few years ago that she decided to take riding lessons. "I love animals, especially horses, and horse-riding was something I had wanted to do since a long time. When I went for my first lesson, I was afraid and unsure about it. But the horses made me feel comfortable with their behaviour. Since then, there's been no looking back," she says, adding, "Horse-riding has been a big confidence booster and motivator in my life. It changed my lifestyle and has helped me stay fit, physically and mentally."

A pure bond
The actress tells us that riding has become a big part of her life now. "Horses are intelligent. They sense your emotions and I've experienced this multiple times. Over the years, I have built a bond with horses, especially Avanti and Vikrant, the two horses I rode regularly, and I think it's one of the purest bonds I've ever experienced," she says.


When Ayli had a great fall...
Recalling a few incidents when she fell off the horse, Ayli says it's all part of the learning process. "I was at a state-level equestrian competition once and had to trot with my horse. All was well but as soon as the gates to the arena opened and the whistle blew, my horses decided to gallop. I was caught unaware and I fell off. It was funny and thankfully I wasn't hurt," she shares.