Wheels of Time: : Discovering The Payana Car Museum

Situated along the busy Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway, the Payana Car Museum in Srirangapatna, serves as a remarkable tribute to the history of automobiles. Its distinctive façade, shaped like a giant car tire, attracts travelers and car enthusiasts. This recently opened museum is the vision of Dr. D Veerendra Heggade, an ardent car enthusiast who has meticulously curated each vintage vehicle over the last 50 years. A Grand Entrance Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a pristine black 1962 Standard Herald. Once a familiar sight on Indian roads, this car has become rare due to the unavailability of spare parts and dwindling customers. This initial display sets the stage for a nostalgic journey through the rich history of automobiles. In Kannada, "Payana" translates to "journey," and the museum lives up to its name. Dr. Heggade describes vintage vehicles as "ambassadors and tangible remnants of history and heritage," emphasizing their role in preserving the elegance of a bygone era. Source: Google Images A Vast Collection Spread across 23 acres, the museum boasts a collection of 69 vehicles that chronicle the evolution of the automotive industry. From Rolls Royce models dating back to 1904 to contemporary cars, the collection offers a comprehensive overview of the technological advancements and design changes over the decades. Interactive Exhibits The Payana Car Museum is not just a place to view rare vehicles; it offers an immersive experience with interactive exhibits. These exhibits provide visitors with insights into the rich history of automobiles through live models and engaging displays. One of the museum's highlights is its display of cars used by eminent personalities. Vehicles that once belonged to Mahatma Gandhi, the Mysore Maharaja, and Sir CV Raman are part of the collection, adding a touch of historical significance to the exhibits. Additionally, the museum features a 1946 Ford Prefect, a 1947 French Citroen Traction, and an American Buick from the same year. Beyond Cars Dr. Heggade's vision for the Payana Car Museum extends beyond automobiles. He has dedicated a section to Mumbai's heritage vehicles, featuring the iconic double-decker bus and the now-extinct 'kaali-peeli' taxis. The museum also houses Willy trucks, World War II jeeps, a Dodge Power Wagon, and more recent models like a 1980s Mercedes Benz, a 1991 Contessa Classic, and even an electric Reva. The Payana Car Museum is more than just a destination for car enthusiasts; it is a celebration of history, innovation, and the timeless allure of vintage vehicles. Dr. D Veerendra Heggade's dedication and passion are evident in every exhibit, making this museum a must-visit for anyone traveling along the Bengaluru-Mysuru expressway.