Tata Steel hosted the third edition of its Vintage and Classic Car & Bike Rally in Jamshedpur on February 25, as part of the 185th Founder's Day celebration. This event paid tribute to the vision of Tata Group's founder, Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, and showcased the rich automotive history of India.
A Spectacular Display of Vintage Vehicles
The rally featured over 160 vintage and classic cars and bikes, dating from the 1920s to the 1980s. These vehicles were not just a testament to the engineering marvels of their time but also a reflection of the evolving automotive industry. Participants from various states, including West Bengal, Jharkhand, Punjab, and Odisha brought their prized possessions to Gopal Maidan turning them into a living museum of automotive history.
The Rally Route and Landmarks
The event kicked off with the flag-off ceremony by Tata Steel's executives at Gopal Maidan. The rally then took the participants and spectators on a journey through time covering landmarks such as Bharucha Mansion, Jubilee Park, United Club, Sir Dorabji Tata Park, Keenan Stadium, and St. George's Church. The 23km route provided a scenic backdrop to the vintage vehicles, culminating at the United Club for the final display.
Emphasizing Cultural Preservation
In his address during the prize distribution ceremony, Chanakya Chaudhary, Vice President of Corporate Services at Tata Steel highlighted the significance of the rally in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. He stressed that the event was not only about showcasing rare and beautiful machines but also about celebrating the history and culture that they represent.
Winners and Highlights
The Mercury 8 sedan, owned by Sourav Roy, emerged as the overall winner in the car category, while Hermit Singh Bhamra's Triumph 3HW took the top spot in the bike category. The event also saw participation from the Super Biker's Club of Jamshedpur displaying modern bikes from brands like Harley-Davidson, BMW, Ducati, and Triumph, alongside the vintage models.
The Growing Legacy of the Rally
Since its inception in 2022, the Jamshedpur Rally has grown in popularity, attracting more participants and spectators each year. This growing interest reflects the deep-rooted passion for vintage cars and bikes in the region and the desire to preserve and celebrate this aspect of cultural heritage. The rally not only highlights the rich automotive history but also the cultural significance of Jamshedpur, making it a key event in the Founder's Day celebrations.
The Tata Steel Vintage and Classic Car & Bike Rally is more than just an automotive event, it's a celebration of history, culture, and the enduring legacy of vintage vehicles. As the rally continues to grow, it promises to keep the spirit of vintage motoring alive in Jamshedpur and beyond, ensuring that the heritage of these timeless machines is cherished for generations to come.