By Srinivas Iyer – Mumbai
The World Trade Center Mumbai witnessed a spectacular flag-off ceremony of vintage, classic, and modern classic automobiles as part of the 5th Edition of the VCCCI Annual Vintage, Classic, and Modern Classic Car Fiesta 2026. The ceremony marked the conclusion of the three-day celebration held from 24th to 26th January 2026 at the venue.
The event brought together over 187 vehicles, celebrating automotive heritage, royal provenance, and global craftsmanship. Cars from the private collections of Mr. Yohaan Poonawala, Mr. Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, and Mr. Abhishek Karnani, President of the Free Press Journal, along with dignitaries from royal families, were among the highlights. The flag-off symbolised the living legacy of motoring history and reinforced Mumbai’s reputation as a leading destination for culture-driven exhibitions.
Vishaal Kalantri, Priya Pansare, Sangeeta Jain, Somesh Batra, Bharat Kalasker, Vijay Kalantri & Abhishek Karnani flagging off the Vintage Car Rally.
The 2026 edition also commemorated 100 years of the legendary Rolls-Royce Phantom series, showcased through India’s largest-ever Phantom Centenary exhibition. For the first time, all seven generations of the Phantom were displayed together, offering visitors a rare historic journey through automotive excellence.
Dr. Vijay Kalantri, President of the All India Association of Industries and Chairman of World Trade Center Mumbai, said, “World Trade Center Mumbai is proud to host and culminate the 5th edition of the Annual Vintage, Classic and Modern Classic Car Fiesta 2026 with this grand flag-off. This event celebrates not only exceptional automobiles but also Mumbai’s rich cultural identity as a city that values heritage, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.”
The flag-off provided a fitting finale, leaving visitors with lasting memories of elegance, engineering brilliance, and nostalgia.
