THE ANSWERS with...Yohan Poonawalla

With a name that commands reverence across buisness, philanthropy and the world's top concours lawns, Yohan Poonawalla, chairman of the Poonawalla Group, wears many hats. A custodian of heritage, his globally celebrated collection of over 50 rare automobiles includes a vintage Rolls-Royce once owned by royalty and a bespoke Bentley, each reflecting his uncompromising eye for provenance and perfection. Recognised as one of the Top 100 Classic Car Collectors in the world and honoured as the Classic Car Ambassador for 2023 in London, Poonawalla's accolades—including Collector of the Year at the 2023 Geneva International Motor Show in Qatar and the recent Hero of the Rally award at the Mille Miglia UAE—affirm his global stature. “My passion for classic cars has always been about preserving India's rich motoring heritage,” he says. Beyond the gleam of polished bonnets and concours trophies, his business empire spans biotech, finance and real estate. Here, he delves into the nuances of collecting, the joy of restoration, and why true luxury is as much about legacy as it is about rarity.

- Sumita Bagchi

What are the most recent cars you've added to your collection?

Recently, I've welcomed three special cars. One, the Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB Privacy Suite. It is significant as it was the last Privacy Suite car to roll off the production line. Rolls-Royce marked the occasion with a special letter and certificate, underscoring its collectible value. Then there's the James Bond Edition Defender, a one-off anniversary edition. And finally, the Ferrari F430, which has joined the garage and is destined to become an important future classic.

What do you love about your 1949 Rolls-Royce that won ‘Best in Show’ at the Valletta Concours 2025?

The 1949 Rolls-Royce is special not just for its beauty, but also for its extraordinary provenance and rare features. Originally owned by the maharaja of Mysuru—who was the second richest man in the world then—it later belonged to the maharaja of Bharatpur, making it a rare two-owner maharaja car. Beyond its royal lineage, it is adorned with bespoke details, including 18 kilograms of silverware comprising cutlery, a vanity set, mirrors, sandwich boxes, scent bottles, and even a discreet jewellery box for the maharani. The car was also used during royal state visits, including the Duke and Queen’s 1961 India tour, and by the Prince of Wales during his visits.

Which possession in your car collection tells the best story?