The prestigious 21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally & Concours Show was set to unfold on February 17, 2017, at the iconic India Gate in New Delhi. This highly anticipated vintage car rally, a prominent fixture on the global vintage rallies calendar, promised a weekend brimming with nostalgia and sheer motoring excitement for enthusiasts and the public alike.
Building on the resounding success of previous editions, the 7th annual 21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally & Concours Show was poised to be a truly royal gathering. The event was scheduled to showcase a meticulously curated selection of rare and premium vintage and classic cars and motorcycles, both Indian and international marques. Significant participation was expected from nations renowned for their automotive heritage, including the USA, France, Germany, Italy, and the UK. This international flavor elevated the event, positioning it as a key attraction for global vintage car aficionados.
Adding another dimension of thrill to the program, attendees were offered the unique opportunity to witness a classic and vintage car race. This exhilarating race was scheduled for Sunday, February 19, taking place at the Buddh International F1 Circuit in Greater Noida. The inclusion of a race at a renowned Formula 1 track amplified the event’s appeal, blending the elegance of vintage automobiles with the adrenaline of motorsport.
Madan Mohan, the Founder & Managing Trustee of the 21 Gun Salute Heritage & Cultural Trust, emphasized the scale and vision of the event. “The 7th edition of the vintage car rally is organized at a much larger scale and is expected to capture even more attention than previous years, thanks to its vibrant and stylish atmosphere. Featuring nearly 100 carefully chosen vintage & classic cars from India, Germany, France, the US, Italy & the UK, this year’s rally is set to be even grander. Our vision is to establish India as a premier global destination for motoring tourism!” he stated.
Beyond its role in showcasing automotive heritage to a worldwide audience, the 21 Gun Salute International Vintage Car Rally program also embraced a meaningful social cause each year. Past editions had lent their support to various charitable initiatives, including the welfare of spastic and visually impaired children, and the ‘Save the Girl Child’ campaign. Continuing this tradition of social responsibility, the 7th edition was dedicated to supporting the welfare of spastic children, further highlighting the event’s commitment to making a positive impact.
The distinctive name ‘21 Gun Salute’ itself carries historical significance, derived from the imperial system of salutes. This system, based on prosperity and dignity in the eyes of sovereign powers, designated the 21 Gun Salute as the highest honor bestowed upon five prominent Princely states: Hyderabad, Mysore, Jammu & Kashmir, Baroda, and Gwalior. This name thus reflects the grandeur and prestige associated with the vintage car rally, linking it to India’s rich historical and cultural tapestry.
