A Glorious Celebration of Timeless Elegance: The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance
In the heart of Rajasthan, under the radiant sun of spring, The Oberoi Udaivilas stands as a luxurious oasis. Its golden insignia symbolizes not just opulence but a gathering of enthusiasts celebrating the elegance of vintage automobiles. During a recent panel discussion, Sandra Button, chief judge of the The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance, made a profound statement: “Approach a car. Let it speak to you.” This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of the event held between February 20 and 22, where around 120 stunning classic cars and bikes were showcased, earning admiration from millionaires, billionaires, and former maharajas across India.
The Allure of Vintage Cars
As I navigated through the immaculate courtyard filled with history-laden automobiles, it became evident that these vehicles spark joy in a way that modern machines cannot. A Rolls-Royce exudes effortless sophistication, while a Ferrari or Mustang brings an enticing allure. These vintage beauties, many dating back to the early 1900s, blend nostalgia with modern craftsmanship—restored meticulously with luscious colors and customizable features.
The venue, with its breathtaking view of Lake Pichola and the historic Udaipur City Palace, turned into a vivid gallery of automobiles. Guests, donned in designer attire, engaged in deep conversations about the intricate engineering behind these vehicles while saving business talks for later.
A Meeting of Heritage and Modern Design
Among the highlights of the event was a fashion showcase by acclaimed designer Tarun Tahiliani, who illustrated the evolution of Indian textiles and fashion. His demonstration drew a captivated audience, blending artistry with automotive heritage—a fitting tribute to the cultural richness surrounding vintage cars.
A Generational Shift in Passionate Collectors
Among the participants was Khushi Dossa, just 22 years old, embodying a new generation of car enthusiasts. A lifelong fascination began with a vintage Bentley in her family, and on turning 18, her grandfather gifted her the car that was once part of the Maharaja of Mysore’s collection. Winners of the Concours included Khushi, who managed to secure accolades for her vehicle, a testament to familial love and shared passion for preserving automotive history. “I look forward to driving it around Mumbai, showcasing it against the city’s architecture while enjoying a cup of coffee,” she expressed enthusiastically.
A Legacy of Passion and Craftsmanship
Her grandfather, Nitin Dossa, a veteran in the world of vintage vehicles, emphasized that over 75% of the car show participants were under 50—a promising sign for the future of classic car culture. With a collection of 70 vehicles, he noted how events like these fuel the passion for restoration, breathing new life into machines that might have otherwise been lost to time. “In vintage cars, one can hear a heartbeat. That is a feeling to cherish,” he remarked, further reinforcing the emotional connection that these automobiles hold.
A Mosaic of Timelessness and Elegance
The Concours d’Elegance is not merely an exhibition; it is an homage to the rich tapestry of India’s automotive history. Arjun Oberoi, chairman of the event, emphasized the significance of preserving this legacy, stating, “We wanted an event that celebrated the legacy of the country while also marking our 90th anniversary.” His vision materialized through collaborations with legendary collectors, such as Manvendra Singh Barwani, who curated a selection of timeless cars for the event.
Stars of the Show
At the heart of the exhibition were vehicles like the 1937 Bentley 4¼ litre drophead coupe, once owned by the Nawab of Bhopal; a 500 CC BSA WM20 motorcycle from WWII; and an impressive lineup of Rolls-Royces, including the iconic Phantom series collected by Yohan Poonawalla. For Yohan, seeing his entire collection showcased was a rare delight. “Picking a favorite would be like selecting a favorite child. Impossible,” he quipped.
The Heartbeat of Automobiles
As the event continued under the blue sky, each vehicle told its own story, resonating with emotions. For many, cars transcend their functional role, becoming extensions of oneself—mirroring moods and aspirations.
Standing next to a beautifully restored 1923 Rolls-Royce Roadster, Shrivardhan Kanoria, a passionate collector, aptly summarized the essence of the event: “What is the point of a car if it does not tell a story?”
At the Oberoi Concours d’Elegance, every car indeed spoke volumes—whispering tales of history, craftsmanship, and an enduring passion for automotive artistry.