Hundreds of women in Mumbai got behind the wheel on the occasion of International Women’s Day to participate in the ‘Women’s Rally to the Valley’ organised by Western India Automobile Association (WIAA) on March 8.
The city’s first-ever Women’s Car Rally saw over 250 cars (1,000 women) driving through the streets of Mumbai. The rally commenced from Hotel Sahara Star (Domestic Airport) in the morning and traversed through Worli Sea Face, Peddar Road, Chowpatty, Marine Drive and Churchgate before reaching Aamby Valley.
WIAA, Executive Chairman Nitin Dossa said, “Since WIAA’s prime focus is creating awareness in the society about road safety, we have taken the initiative to create awareness about women’s safety on roads, in public transport and in public places. With the growing attacks on women in recent times, it is important to create awareness amongst the citizens of Mumbai to build a protective society for women.”
Jean Todt, President, Federation Internationale de L’Automobile (FIA) the World body for Motor Sports & Mobility, was the special guest at the first ever women’s car rally in Mumbai. He, along with Nitin Dossa, flagged off the rally amidst loud cheers and great camaraderie from the participants.
It is for the first event in India to be flagged off by the FIA President with Vijay Mallya, Chairman of the FMSCI – the controlling body of Motor Sports in India and other office bearers of the FMSCI present alongside.
The rally was also unique in the sense that 77-year old Rajkumari S. Kasliwal was the first driver to be flagged off by FIA President Mr. Jean Todt.
Several well-known personalities including actresses Tanvi Azmi, Neerja Birla, Mugdha Godse, Gurmeet Chowdhry, veteran rallyist and Autocar show editor Renuka Kripalani, Deepa Damodaran and yesteryears rallyists Navaz Bhathena Sandhu along with senior Katy Bhathena were also present.