The 11th edition of the 21 Gun Salute Concours d’Elegance, held at the Leela Ambience Golf Greens, showcased an impressive mix of vintage automobiles and rich Indian cultural heritage. The event’s highlight was the crowning of the 1922 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost, originally owned by the princely state of Mayurbhanj and now owned by Dhanraj Gidwani, as the overall winner. The vehicle captivated both the audience and jury with its timeless elegance and meticulous preservation.
Olympic champion Babita Phogat and former Indian women’s cricket team captain Anjum Chopra attended as chief guests, honoring winners across various categories alongside special guest Maharaja Mandhata Singh Jadeja of Rajkot. Gidwani expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling all exhibited cars ‘special and priceless.’
The event featured a remarkable lineup of rare automobiles, attracting over 25,000 enthusiasts and visitors. Notable among them was the 1935 Buick 90L, owned by Diljit Titus, which secured first place in the Post War American Coupe category for its historical significance and exceptional restoration.
Cultural celebrations included traditional Indian folk dances like Kathakali, Bharatanatyam, Bhangra, and Giddha, adding vibrancy and authenticity to the gathering. An international jury of experts from the US, UK, Japan, and Belgium meticulously assessed each vehicle, reaffirming the event’s global stature.
Attendees were particularly drawn to the oldest car on display—a 1903 De Dion Bouton exhibited by Hemant Kumar Ruia. Ruia described showcasing this historic automobile as ‘a moment of immense pride.’ Another highlight was the 1928 Chrysler presented by His Highness Mandhata Singh Ji of Rajkot, who praised the event’s celebration of automotive heritage.
A rare highlight was a custom-built 1948 Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe, originally made for the Maharani of Baroda and now owned by collector Madan Mohan. Returning to India after decades abroad, this Bentley stood out for its unique upholstery and historical significance, described by Mohan as ‘an essential piece of India’s motoring legacy.’
Vintage car enthusiast Shanker Sundara from Chennai showcased a 1938 MGTA Tickford DHC, highlighting the visitors’ passion for classic automobiles as inspiring.