Maruti 800: India’s First Hatchback Car that Redefined Middle-Class Dreams
The Maruti 800, the iconic car that brought the dream of owning one’s car to the middle-class, is now a cherished memory in many households. Today, it proudly stands as the first car for countless families, a symbol of Maruti pride.
The reminiscence of the Maruti 800 takes us back to the dusty lanes and bylanes of India, where it first made its historic ascent. This very car, now presented in a modern and stylish avatar, is a testament to its enduring legacy.
The historic car has found its way back to Maruti service centers, undergoing a rejuvenation, and continues to capture the hearts of enthusiasts.
In 1983, the original Maruti 800, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, was launched. As a tribute to this iconic hatchback, Maruti Suzuki has undertaken a renovation of the first-generation model, which is currently on display at Maruti showrooms, creating a buzz on social media.
The Journey of Maruti 800…
During the 1980s, there was an endeavor in India to create an affordable small people’s car. While Sanjay Gandhi had established the Maruti industry to make a truly Indian small car, getting the car to production was not an easy task, and many other car manufacturers did not venture into this territory. Consequently, Sanjay Gandhi and others’ dream of running cars on the roads did not materialize.
And then, the government took over the project during the 1980s. Unfortunately, Sanjay Gandhi’s untimely demise had pushed the complete Maruti car project into the backseat, leaving it uncertain.
Finally, in 1981, Maruti Udyog Limited was registered as a company. In 1982, an agreement was reached with the renowned Japanese Suzuki company to produce Maruti cars. On December 14, 1983, the first Maruti car hit the market.
The launch of this car was accompanied by tremendous excitement. It is said that even Indira Gandhi had this project in mind as a memory of her son. Before launching the Maruti car, efforts were made to reduce the cost of petrol.
Publicly, there was chaos surrounding the bookings of this Maruti car. Eventually, a lucky draw was conducted, and only a few fortunate individuals could get their hands on the new Maruti 800. The first name drawn in the lucky draw was Sardar Harpal Singh from Delhi.
On December 14, 1983, a grand event was organized in Gurgaon, Haryana, to mark the occasion
At that time, Harpal Singh had handed over the keys to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi herself. The car’s registration number was DIA 6479.
During the event, on the stage, Indira Gandhi’s elder son, Rajiv Gandhi, came forward, and he playfully punched Harpal Singh. Harpal Singh, who had previously worked as a pilot for Indian Airlines, was present at the event.
In 1983, the Maruti 800, bedecked with a flag, emerged from the Gurgaon factory and made its way to Green Park in Delhi.
The very next day, Harpal Singh took his family, including his wife Gulshanbir Kaur, elder daughter Govindarpal Kaur, son-in-law Tejinder, and toddler Sunita, on a trip to Meerut. As they drove through the streets of Meerut, people were left in awe, and wherever the car stopped, crowds gathered to marvel at it. With the bonnet and trunk open, everyone tried to catch a glimpse of this wondrous vehicle.
Harpal Singh never replaced his car, and he continued to use the iconic Maruti 800 throughout his life. He had acquired the car for a mere 47,500 rupees. Amardeep Walia, a close friend, recalled that despite receiving numerous substantial offers from many people after the car had become famous, Harpal Singh never entertained the idea of selling it. For him, this car held a special place in his heart.
Harpal Singh passed away in 2010. In 2008, the car was showcased at a Maruti Suzuki Ropeway event. After Harpal Singh’s demise, his wife also passed away two years later. India’s first Maruti car had become a relic. For many years, this Maruti 800 was parked under a shed at Green Park, Meerut, serving as a symbol of Harpal Singh’s enduring affection.
In 2015, Maruti Suzuki faced questions about the car’s future, as it was on the verge of retiring due to dwindling demand. Malayalam superstar Mammootty expressed a desire to take responsibility for preserving this iconic car
In 2013, the last Maruti 800 was sold, leaving behind memories for multiple generations.
Interestingly, India’s former Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, who held the position for ten years, also used a Maruti 800 during his tenure. Even today, in 1996, he owns a Maruti Suzuki 800 model. In 2013, he included the car’s mention in his election affidavit, where he stated that the car is a Maruti 800.
India’s former Prime Ministers have preserved the memory of Maruti cars, and it appears that this responsibility is passed down to them as well, doesn’t it