Pics: Justin D’Silva
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Jan 28: People in and around Manipal on January 26 had an opportunity to witness old vintage bikes and cars which ruled the Indian roads once upon a time. Manipal Auto Club on the occasion of Republic Day organized a show of vintage car and bikes in DC Office Manipal.
Speaking to Daijiworld.com, Dr Afsal, president, Manipal Auto Club said, “On the occasion of 70th Republic Day we have organised this show to honor the vintage car and bike owners in and around Udupi, Manipal. Manipal Auto Club started four years ago is an association of likeminded people who are very much interested about vehicles and driving,” he said.
Udupi Java Yezdi Club also presented bikes of their members. A 1969 Lanbretta, 1974 Yezdi B type, Yezdi Roadking, Delux, Classic were showcased by Udupi Java Yezdi Club. The club member Sudheer had showcased his Yezdi Roadking in which he had ride to Khardungla Pass in Himalayan region 2017. Vintage bikes like Bullet 350, Bullet Classic, Honda XL 250S and Bajaj Chetak series were showcased on the occasion.
Many vintage cars from the yesteryears were also part of the show. More than 30 vintage were showcased. Maruthi Suzuki 800 DX, 1951 Playmouth, 1929 Ford, Morris, British Classic car Austin, Ambassador Nova, Landmaster, Wily’s Jeep, Hyundai Accent, Mitsubushi Lancer, Mercedes Benz E 250 and many more heritage old model cars were showcased.
Manipal Auto club was started four years ago. The club started with a objective ‘Driving and Beyond’ is also involved in many social activities also. The club is taking steps to create awareness about drug consumption, disaster management, road safety, awareness on usage of helmets etc. The club presently has a membership of 50 in Manipal and many more in other stations also.
Speaking to daijiworld.com Manjunath Goni, owner of 1997 Mercedes Benz said, “Seven years ago I bought this 1997 Mercedes Benz. It still it is working in very good condition. It gives a mileage of around 5 km per litre. I am proud to own this car. Even today also I am using it.”
These vintage cars and bikes had ruled the roads of India once upon a time. Some of them are still in very good condition for usage.
Dr Afsal, president, Manipal Auto Club, Dr Dinesh Kini, chairman and other members of the club participated in the show. Vintage vehicle owners Prakash Shetty, Arun ShiralI, and Manjunath Kamath were honored on the occasion. The vehicles were taken in a procession from DC Office to Tiger Circle Manipal.