In a spectacular display of automotive heritage, the first-ever vintage and classic car exhibition, ‘Odisha Concours D’Elegance,’ has taken Bhubaneswar by storm, captivating enthusiasts and transporting them back in time. The two-day event, inaugurated by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, boasts an awe-inspiring collection of over 52 historic automobiles, some of which have gracefully navigated the roads for more than a century.
The exhibition at Baramunda playground is a treasure trove of automotive marvels, featuring iconic vehicles such as the legendary Benz Motorwagen, Rolls-Royce, Ford, Jaguar, Bugatti, British Classics, and the timeless Mk V. Vintage car aficionados are treated to a nostalgic journey through history, relishing the elegance of these well-preserved gems that were once the status symbols of kings and royal families.
Among the shining stars of the exhibition is a Limousine model of the 1938 Rolls Royce, equipped with a glass partition allowing the driver to hear the conversations of royalty and a walkie-talkie for regal commands. The captivating 1928 Rolls Royce Phantom, used by the Bhavnagar king, boasts a unique feature – a built-in facility to house guns, reflecting the opulence of a bygone era.
A rare blue-colored 1920 Moon car, one of only two in existence globally, has become the cynosure of all eyes, while the Alvis 25 DHC model car, once a luxurious chariot for the Mayurbhanj Royal Family in 1937, adds an air of sophistication to the exhibition.
Organizers Dharmaditya Patnaik and Biraj Patnaik expressed their delight at bringing this unique exhibition to Odisha for the first time and hinted at making it an annual extravaganza. Car enthusiasts from across the state marveled at the meticulous restoration efforts, with one collector from Punjab sharing, “I bought a vintage car in 2001-02. It was one of the most graceful vehicles in the world. After buying the vehicle, I took five to six years to restore it fully.”
The exhibition also educates attendees on the distinctions between vintage, antique, and classic cars. A stunning replica of the 1886 Benz Motorwagen, a 1934 Rolls Royce 20/25, a 1929 Bugatti Grand Prix, a 1932 Ford V, a 1947 Cadillac Coupe, and a 1962 Jaguar MK 2 Saloon, among others, complete the mesmerizing ensemble.
As the curtain lifts on this automotive spectacle, it leaves enthusiasts and onlookers alike in awe, celebrating the rich history and enduring allure of these vintage and classic automobiles. The ‘Odisha Concours D’Elegance’ promises to become a hallmark event, fueling a passion for automotive history and heritage in the state.