Driving into a bygone era: Vintage cars grace Kolkata streets for the 5th EIMG fiesta at Eco Park

Slowly and gracefully, the convoy pulled out, the city’s modern traffic briefly pausing to witness the breathtaking sight of a bygone era in motion. This mobile museum of motoring heritage wended its way through the streets, finally arriving at its destination Club De Golf, Gate 6, Ecopark.

Hosted by Club De Golf in association with EIMG, the venue was transformed into a stunning open-air gallery. For the last five seasons, this event has been a successful collaboration between Shrivardhan Kanoria and Akanksha Pandey, Founder, Club De Golf.

The event, held from 11 am to 3 pm, was a celebration of automotive passion, complete with a cocktail brunch for the owners and enthusiasts. There was an element of quiz as well as trivia telling, conducted by Somen Sengupta and Sanjiv Sarkar.

“The 1936 Bentley models and 1938 Rolls Royce are the cars which I am enjoying this season. One note for classic cars owners, never over use them nor under use them..These events are an excuse for the vintage car owners to showcase their collections, and what better than doing it in the picturesque Club De Golf,” said Kanoria, Kolkata’s famous vintage car collector and restorer.

Kanoria, who is now a leading light in the vintage car community, has won awards at prestigious International Concours events like ‘Cartier travel with Style’ and ‘21 Gun Salute Concours, & The Oberoi Concours’. He proudly leads the EIMG, a group he formed in 2020 as a platform for serious collectors from across Eastern India to interact and boost their shared passion. Under his leadership, EIMG organises five to six pathbreaking vintage car related events per year.

All the proud vintage car owners were honored by the Chief Guest, Dr P Ulaganathan. Moved by the event, Dr Ulaganathan said, “Every year I come here. This time being the chief guest, it is really very nostalgic. I’m sure a large number of people will come this year also. And I also thank the car owners who have taken initiative and have come all the way here.The event being organised during this time is really wonderful.”

He encouraged the participants for the meticulous upkeep of their magnificent cars. The staff at the venue were equally pleased to host this tradition. Nirmal Sarkar, Manager, EPGA, said , “Vintage Car Rally is a heritage rally and it was started in 1964 at Delhi. And we are glad that vintage and classic car owners are maintaining their cars nicely.”

Club De Golf provided a perfect and serene backdrop for this celebration of mechanical beauty and heritage. As the afternoon concluded, the cars, each polished to a mirror shine, sat testament to the dedication of their owners and the vibrant motoring movement EIMG is fostering in Eastern India.