Woman from Bengaluru has purchased a vintage car which was owned by actors Rajinikanth, Mammootty, and Aamir Khan
Woman from Bengaluru has purchased a vintage car which was owned by actors Rajinikanth, Mammootty, and Aamir Khan
The Premier Padmini, manufactured in India under a Fiat license, was a cherished automobile in the 1970s and 1980s.
For one woman in Bengaluru, her dream car wasn’t about luxury or the latest technology. It was a beloved childhood treasure—a vintage Premier Padmini, a classic vehicle that carries profound sentimental significance.
Rachana Mahadimane, a resident of Bengaluru, has recently achieved her dream of owning this legendary vehicle. She expressed her joy on Instagram by sharing a video of herself behind the wheel of the beautifully restored vintage car.
“I can’t believe this is real. I bought myself a car for my birthday, and it’s the one I’ve dreamed of since I was a little girl. I’ve been spotting Padminis everywhere for the past two years. I sketched them, painted them, and documented every time I saw one in my neighborhood. Driving my very own Padmini now feels absolutely surreal,” says Rachana.
“I learned to drive in a Padmini and even took my driving test in one with gears on the steering wheel. Congratulations on your very own piece of history,” said one comment.
“I fulfilled my dream of owning an Ambassador this June and drove it from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. Your Padmini is absolutely gorgeous—enjoy every ride,” said another.
“In a world of fancy luxury car chasing, this is absolutely real manifestation,” said another comment.
Mahadimane has cherished her love for the Padmini for many years. When she finally found a car to buy, it was in less than ideal condition. The vehicle needed significant repairs and a thorough overhaul to restore it. After months of hard work and careful restoration, the car was transformed into a beautiful soft powder-blue hue, exactly as she had imagined.
The Premier Padmini, manufactured in India under a Fiat license, was a cherished automobile in the 1970s and 1980s. It garnered immense popularity, with notable owners including celebrities such as Rajinikanth, Mammootty, and Aamir Khan.
However, as contemporary, fuel-efficient models from Maruti Suzuki took over the market, the Padmini’s appeal diminished. Nevertheless, its legacy lived on, particularly as the iconic “kaali peeli” taxis of Mumbai, which continued to operate until their retirement in 2023.
