41st anniversary of The Times of India, Bengaluru: Inspired the country’s classic car culture

By: Dr Ravi Prakash

Bengaluru has played a big role in shaping the historic vehicle movement in India. What began as a quiet appreciation for automotive beauties has evolved into a vibrant, inclusive and socially conscious community of vintage vehicle lovers. This transformation is rooted in deep respect for heritage, a growing network of passionate collectors and a climate well-suited for preserving these automotive gems.

Over the years, the city has witnessed a steady rise in historic (vintage and classic) car ownership. Each vehicle is a cherished piece of living history with immense emotional attachment. For many, restoring these automobiles is a way of reconnecting with their family’s heartwarming past, reviving stories, protecting the history or a simple appreciation for timeless craftsmanship.

Passion in the driver’s seat
The journey began in 1979 with the formation of the Karnataka Vintage and Classic Car Club (KVCCC) — not only Bengaluru’s first but also India’s oldest vintage & classic car club. It brought together like-minded individuals, who believed in preservation and community. With KVCCC, a structured platform was born for rallies, exhibitions and heritage drives that celebrated the charm of yesteryear.

But what set these rallies apart was their deeper purpose. Each event became a moving platform for social change. From spreading awareness about cancer and AIDS to honouring Kargil martyrs, supporting the welfare of senior citizens, protecting the girl child, promoting a greener Bengaluru, the cars carried more than just passengers; they carried messages of hope and solidarity. These drives weren’t just celebrations of history — they were calls to action, engaging communities across the city.

Movement shifts gears
In 2017, the movement took a leap from the state to the national stage with the formation of the Federation of Historic Vehicles of India (FHVI). This expanded the community’s reach and connected collectors across the country, paving the way for national and international collaborations.

In 2019, Bengaluru proudly hosted India’s first-ever exclusive historic motorcycle display at UB City, showcasing over 200 motorcycles dating as far back as the 1910s. Another milestone was the hosting of the prestigious Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) Governing Council meet, bringing the global spotlight to India’s heritage vehicle movement and establishing Bengaluru as a vital contributor to this cultural revival.

On a family drive
The most heartwarming contribution of FHVI has been its ability to bring families closer. FHVI events are about shared experiences. It’s not uncommon to see three generations — a grandmother, her son and an excited little grandchild— all riding together in a vintage car, laughing during a treasure hunt or bonding over stories from a bygone era.

These moments go beyond chrome and steel — they are about love, legacy, and connection. The inclusion of women and children in these events has broken through stereotypes and created a truly welcoming space. From organizing family-friendly drives to engaging young volunteers, photographers and students, FHVI has built a movement that’s as much about people as it is about cars.

Wheel turns, and how
Today, a new generation of enthusiasts are taking the wheel. Young collectors are acquiring vintage vehicles not just for status but for the joy of being part of something bigger. It’s not about how many cars you own or how rare your model is. It’s about the friendships you form, the family memories you create and the shared love for timeless design and history.

The community’s strong sense of camaraderie is magnetic. Enthusiasts — young and old — come together with a single passion that transcends age, gender and background. The emphasis is no longer just on preservation but on inclusion, education and evolution.

There is now a growing realization that for India’s automotive heritage to truly thrive, we must build on strong foundations while embracing fresh perspectives. By empowering the youth, celebrating diversity and involving communities at every level, FHVI is nurturing a future that’s as bright as the past it preserves.

No pitstops on nostalgia drive
Today, Bengaluru stands tall as a vibrant centre of historic vehicles culture in India. It’s a city where nostalgia meets progress, where metal meets meaning and where every ride tells a story. What began with a few passionate collectors has grown into a family of thousands — united not just by their love for automobiles but by their commitment to preserving stories, celebrating legacy, and driving change.

In every rusted part or polished bonnet, in every silent purr or roaring engine, lies the heart of a city that remembers — and a community that cares.

The writer is president of Federation of Historic Vehicles of India


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