In a dazzling display of opulence and automotive history, the 1926 Daimler 45 HP Salon Cabriolet, affectionately nicknamed the “Star of India,” was sold for a staggering INR 7.30 crores in the USA. This illustrious vehicle, once the crown jewel in the fleet of Major-General His Highness Samrajya Maharajadhiraja Bandresh Shri Maharaja Sir Gulab Singh Ju Deo Bahadur of Rewa, has a story as captivating as its design.
Crafted for a life of luxury, the Maharaja, a known connoisseur of fine automobiles, spared no expense in his acquisitions. This Daimler, a masterpiece of British custom coachwork, was no exception. The chassis, a robust 45 HP model with a sleeve-valve six-cylinder engine, cost a princely sum of £1,400 (around INR 1.46 lakh then) and was adorned with a salon cabriolet body by Barker & Company of London.
The Daimler’s exterior, a gleaming tapestry of polished German silver, was just the beginning. It featured a sophisticated inner wooden frame, a single door on the passenger side, folding front bucket seats, and a spacious rear seat. The interior boasted lavish woodwork and premium leather, befitting a royal. Unique features included a convertible top, dual sets of windows for privacy, and an array of instruments on the dashboard, giving it the air of a dirigible control room.
True to the Maharaja’s adventurous spirit, this vehicle was not just for show. It was equipped for the princely sport of shikar (tiger hunting), complete with rattan seats for attendants and gunbearers, powerful lights, and distinctive Toby taillamps.
The car’s journey is as storied as its owner’s. Following Maharaja Gulab Singh’s reign, which ended in 1942 amid scandal, the Daimler saw varied use, including in religious events, before being sold. Contrary to the dramatic rumors of its rescue from the jungle by elephants, its restoration was largely cosmetic, preserving much of its original charm.
Now, as it finds a new home, the “Star of India” stands as a testament to the grandeur of the past and the allure of classic automotive craftsmanship. It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a rolling piece of history, a relic of royal extravagance, and a symbol of the timeless bond between man and machine.
