Buick of Sirmaur Maharaja to grace Nahan once again

The iconic Buick car purchased by Maharaja Rajendra Prakash of Sirmaur in 1940 is all set to return to Nahan after undergoing extensive restoration in Jaipur. The historic car, once a symbol of royal grandeur, is being restored to its original glory, and its return has sparked excitement among people of Nahan.

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Nahan, with its 400-year-old history, served as the capital of the Prakash dynasty. Every artifact from this era holds immense historical significance for locals and tourists alike. The restored Buick will not only serve as a nostalgic reminder of the princely state’s royal past but also as an attraction for visitors seeking to explore the legacy of Sirmaur.

The Buick was a personal favourite of Maharaja Rajendra Prakash, who used it for travelling around Nahan and attending events in the region. It was often parked in the royal garage near Shimla Road here. Purchased for Rs 40,000 in 1940, the car epitomised luxury and sophistication during its time. According to Kanwar Ajay Bahadur Singh, a member of the royal family, the car will soon grace the streets of Nahan with the same regal charm as it did during the Maharaja’s reign.

Apart from the Buick, Maharaja Rajendra Prakash also owned a Wagon car, which remains a point of intrigue for historians and locals. This vehicle, used for transporting goods to and from the royal palace, was a practical asset for the royal household. Purchased alongside the Buick in 1940 from Delhi, the Wagon was used to bring supplies from places like Punjab and Haryana. Currently housed at the historic Tambu Khana near the Chaugan ground in Nahan, the Wagon is in dire need of restoration to preserve its historical value.

The restoration of the Buick, undertaken three years ago, reflects a growing interest in preserving the heritage of Sirmaur. The royal family’s decision to restore and bring the car back to Nahan highlights their commitment to keeping the history of the region alive.

For people of Nahan, the return of the Buick represents more than just the restoration of a car. It is a symbol of their rich cultural heritage, connecting the present generation to the princely past of Sirmaur. Once back in Nahan, the car will likely become a focal point for tourists and a reminder of the town’s regal history.

The return of Maharaja Rajendra Prakash’s Buick will not only restore a piece of history but will also ignite a renewed sense of pride and curiosity among residents of Nahan and visitors eager to delve into the legacy of the Prakash dynasty.