Bhubaneswar: The inaugural Odisha Concours D’Elegance unfolded at the Biju Patnaik Playground in Baramunda on December 9, 2023, delighting automobile enthusiasts in Odisha. The Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, graced the inauguration ceremony, marking the commencement of a unique vintage and classic car exhibition, a first of its kind in Odisha.
Featuring meticulously restored and impeccably preserved cars from all over India, the event showcased over 50 automobile marvels during its inaugural edition. Each vehicle on display served as a testament to the rich history and craftsmanship of bygone eras. Notable classics included a 1886 replica of the Benz Motorwagen, a 1934 Rolls Royce 20/25, a 1929 Bugatti T$$ Grand Prix, a 1932 Ford V8, a 1920 Moon 6-42, a 1947 Cadillac Coupe, a 1962 Jaguar MK 2 Saloon, and many more.
Organized with the support of Odisha Tourism under the theme “Odisha-India’s Best Kept Secret,” and in collaboration with HMCI, EIMG, VCCCI, HCAI, and KVCCC, the event was sponsored by Falcon, DN Group, Khimji, LYFE Hotel, WGH, and MGM Minerals Limited.
Dharmaditya Patnaik, the curator of Odisha Concours and a vintage car collector, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response, stating, “We are thrilled to witness the success of the 1st Odisha Concours D’Elegance, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to Chief Minister Sri Naveen Patnaik for inaugurating this historic event.”
The Biju Patnaik Playground transformed into a splendid canvas, showcasing automobile masterpieces that narrated unique stories of refinement and sophistication. From vintage Rolls-Royces to classic Jaguars, the event offered a rare glimpse into the evolution of automobile design and engineering.
A special inauguration ceremony saw Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik commending the organizers for preserving and showcasing the heritage associated with vintage and classic automobiles. He expressed delight at the diverse collection on display and emphasized the importance of such events in fostering a deeper appreciation for our automobile legacy.
Media coverage played a crucial role in capturing the essence of the Odisha Concours d’Elegance, with the press invited to witness and document the grandeur of the occasion, ensuring that the stories of these automotive gems reach a wider audience.
The success of the 1st Odisha Concours d’Elegance not only marks a momentous occasion for vintage and classic car enthusiasts in Odisha but also establishes a foundation for future editions of this prestigious event. The organizers, participants, and patrons alike look forward to the continued growth of the Odisha Concours as a significant platform for celebrating the artistry and heritage of automobile craftsmanship.
