Vintage marvels cruise through time and Kolkata's lanes again

The streets of Kolkata came alive on Sunday as over 120 vintage and classic vehicles, from four-wheelers to two-wheelers, participated in The Statesman's 54th annual Vintage and Classic Car Rally.

- PRIYANJALI DAS

Spectators were awestruck by the vibrant parade, a captivating display of automotive history, showcasing historical progression, artistic craftsmanship, and the evolving landscape of automotive technology.

A diverse array of automotive legends graced the streets, cruising through many of the city's thoroughfares on the rally route of around 25 kilometers.

While there were several standouts, Shrivardhan Kanoria's 1906 Renault Freres, boasting two cylinders and an eight horsepower engine, was the oldest one present at the rally and was an immediate crowd puller.

Considered one of the oldest running cars in India, this retro wonder of 119 years has won several awards and has been a part of The Statesman rally since its inception.

The allurement of the parakeet green, 1913 German-made 1500cc Stoewer, one of the only running in India, was hard to miss out - an excellent showcase of automobile craftsmanship.