If the ‘bollywood stars’ hogged the limelight at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa, the ‘Vintage Cars’ were not far behind. As part of the 35th IFFI, a ‘Vintage & Classic Car Rally’ was organized by Ashvek Vintage World along with the Auto Sports Association of Goa (ASAG) with a total number of 55 antique vehicles participating.

The rally which was flagged off by Bicholim MLA Rajesh Patnekar, commenced at the Ribandar Circle (below Mandovi Bridge) with five motorcycles, nine cars from Bangalore and the rest from Goa following suite. The five motorcycles, a BSA M-20 (1942 model), a NSU (1953 model), a Java (1948 model) and two Triumphs (a 1964 T-21 and another 1948 model) led the rally amidst the excited crowd lined up along D B Bandodkar Road to catch a glimpse of these ancient beauties.

From Ribandar circle, it took a turn around the Miramar Circle before winding up the three kilometer route at the Campal Parade grounds for the distribution of certificates by North Goa MP Shripad Naik. Ironically, all the cars commenced their journeys in the morning from Margao before the official flag off in Panjim.

The rally also witnessed a 1928 Lanchester model that earlier belonged to Motilal Nehru. Besides this, there was also a 1954 Carriera owned by D N Naik, Margao that drew nostalgic memories amongst the senior citizens who recalled travelling in them before the modern day buses heralded their departure.

Service back up was provided by N D Naik with servicing teams present at regular intervals to cater to any breakdowns.

(ASHVEK VINTAGE WORLD was officially selected to host the vintage rally for IFFI 2004)

Article by Siddharth Manerkar.