Sneh Binny: It's disheartening to bid adieu to Mumbai's iconic 'Premier Padmini' taxis

Goodbye ‘kaali-peeli’. Mumbai's ‘Premier Padmini’ taxis won't run in the city anymore. Sneh Binny, owner of the tennis team Delhi Binny's Brigade, Founder & CEO of SaveEat & Binny's Jewellery, shares about his earliest memory with these iconic taxis. He also opines whether following this change, Mumbai will lose its charm.

"It's disheartening to bid adieu to Mumbai's iconic 'Premier Padmini' taxis. These classic black-and-yellow taxis have been an integral part of Mumbai's identity for many years, and they hold a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors," he says.

Sharing his earliest memory, he adds, 'My earliest memory of these iconic taxis goes back to my childhood days when I used to visit Mumbai with my family. I remember the distinctive sight of these vintage taxis lining the streets, their charming old-world aesthetic juxtaposed against the modern cityscape. The rugged yet reliable Premier Padmini taxis became a symbol of Mumbai, just like the Gateway of India or the local trains. They were not just a mode of transportation but a nostalgic journey through time," he adds.

The question of whether Mumbai will lose some of its charm with the discontinuation of these taxis is a matter of debate, feels Sneh.

"While it's undeniable that the old taxis had a unique charm, it's also true that they were often associated with certain inconveniences, such as cramped interiors, outdated technology, and maintenance issues. Modernization was necessary for the city's transportation system to keep up with the demands of a rapidly growing metropolis," he explains.

However, it's essential to remember that nostalgia and sentimental value can't be measured in terms of practicality alone, he adds

'Mumbai's identity is a blend of its history and its contemporary advancements, and the Premier Padmini taxis played a significant role in shaping that identity. Losing them might feel like parting with a piece of the city's soul. In a constantly evolving urban landscape, it's natural for cities to bid farewell to certain symbols of the past to make way for the future. The charm of Mumbai lies in its people, its spirit, and its resilience. While we may miss the kaali-peeli taxis, we can be confident that Mumbai's charisma will continue to shine through in different ways. As a city that thrives on its diversity and adaptability, it's certain that Mumbai will find new avenues to enchant and captivate its residents and visitors alike," he signs off.