In an extraordinary feat that has captured the imagination of many, Daman Thakore and his family from Gujarat embarked on a 73-day road trip in their 73-year-old vintage car, a 1950 MG YT named Lal Pari. Their remarkable journey from Ahmedabad to London, covering 13,500 kilometers and crossing 16 countries, has recently gone viral on Instagram, showcasing stunning video captures and sparking widespread admiration.
The journey, meticulously planned over 11 months, was not just a road trip but a homage to the vintage car’s heritage. The car, manufactured in Abingdon, UK, had a symbolic homecoming as the Thakore family made their way to its birthplace. “The car was manufactured in a factory in Abingdon, UK, and we planned the trip with that as the final destination in mind. It was a sort of homecoming for her,” Daman Thakore shared with Better India.
The Epic Journey
The Thakore family set off from Ahmedabad on August 12, 2022, equipped with duffle bags and 80 kg of food. They took a sea route from Mumbai to Dubai, arriving on August 28, before continuing their journey by road. They reached the UK on October 26, completing an epic adventure that spanned 2.5 months and cost them about as much as a Mercedes.
Daman and his family encountered various challenges along the way, including the need for an international license and dealing with local road taxes and insurance fees in each new country. However, their determination and passion for the journey kept them going.
Preparation and Challenges
Preparing Lal Pari for the journey involved countless test drives around Gujarat to ensure she was road-ready. The family faced numerous logistical hurdles, but their meticulous planning and love for adventure saw them through. “73 days of madness, sweat, and blood,” Daman shared, celebrating Lal Pari’s remarkable journey from India to the United Kingdom. Their adventure made them the first Indians to accomplish such a feat in a vintage car.
Video Credit: https://www.instagram.com/theculturegully?igsh=YXgxZDRjanh3N3Jp
Social Media Frenzy
In October 2023, the family proudly shared their adventure on social media, thanking everyone for their support. The story quickly went viral, resonating with people worldwide. Social media buzzed with reactions, as users reminisced about their own adventures and marvelled at the family’s boldness and grit.
One user commented, “1976 I drove with my parents from London to Sri Lanka, more people must enjoy such once in a lifetime exciting overland trips.” Another user compared the family’s journey to the legendary Lawrence of Arabia, saying, “There was a Lawrence of Arabia. I know today Thakore of Ahmedabad,” while a third simply said, “That’s beautiful”.
A Journey of a Lifetime
The Thakore family’s 73-day road trip in their 73-year-old vintage car is a testament to the spirit of adventure and the love for exploring the world in unique ways. Their journey not only celebrates the rich heritage of their vintage car but also inspires countless others to dream big and embark on their own adventures.
This incredible story of determination, meticulous planning, and sheer passion serves as a reminder that with the right spirit, no journey is too challenging, and every destination is within reach.