A doctor in Hyderabad has fused cutting-edge automotive technology with ancient tradition by performing a ceremonial ‘vahan puja’ for his new Tesla Model Y. He asserts that the ritual is a non-negotiable prerequisite for any car’s safety rating in India.
Dr Praveen Koduru shared photographs of the event on the social media platform X. The images show his red electric SUV adorned with a large garland outside a temple.
The car's wheels were smeared with sacred kumkum, or vermilion. His family members, dressed in traditional attire, were pictured participating in the ceremony at the temple entrance.
The ultimate ‘crash test certification'
In his post, which tagged Tesla chief Elon Musk and Tesla India, Dr Koduru made his belief clear. “No car, including Tesla, can get a five-star safety rating in Indian culture unless a vahan puja is done,” he wrote.
The post quickly garnered attention and admiration from other users. One commenter noted, “Of course, it’s the overshield equivalent.” Another offered a humorous take, stating, “In India, Vahan Puja is the ultimate crash test certification.”
This unique event highlights the enduring role of cultural practices in the daily lives of many Indians, even as they embrace global technology.
Tesla's formal entry into India
The puja comes at a significant time for the American electric vehicle manufacturer. As reported by TOI, Tesla officially revealed its Indian pricing in July.
The company listed the on-road cost for the much-anticipated Model Y, the same model owned by Dr Koduru, starting at Rs 61 lakh. The detailed pricing from TOI report showed the rear-wheel-drive variant at Rs 59.89 lakh. The long-range model begins at Rs 67.89 lakh.
What is a vehicle global safety standard?
A vehicle's global safety standard refers to internationally recognised regulations and protocols that ensure vehicles are designed, constructed and tested to maximise safety for drivers, passengers, pedestrians and other road users. These standards cover aspects such as crashworthiness (frontal, side impact protection), electronic stability control, pedestrian protection, seat belts, airbags, braking systems and child restraints.
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