There is hardly anyone who hasn't seated in the iconic 'Kaali-peeli' while visiting or living in Mumbai, the city of dreams. For more than sixty years, these taxis have been a common sight on Mumbai's streets. However, as of today, October 30, the celebrated Premier Padmini taxis will no longer be an option for public transport in the city. The Maharashtra Transport Department has set forth a 20-year age limit for taxis. On October 29, all Mumbai Premier Padmini taxis achieved the legal retirement age and therefore discontinued operating on Mumbai streets. The government also recently phased out the diesel-powered double-decker buses, which had a 15-year lifespan, to lessen pollution in the state. Let's take a closer look at the key highlights of these yellow and black-coloured taxis that have been a reliable mode of transport in Mumbai for ages.
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Kaali-peeli Taxis: A Brief Look into Iconic Past
The legendary Kaali-peeli taxis of Mumbai have a long and impressive history dating back to 1964 when they were first presented as the Fiat-1100 Delight, a potent 1100cc vehicle with a gear shifter located on the steering wheel. It's important to note that the vehicle has been rebranded multiple times over the course of its long lifespan. For example, in the 1970s, the taxi was called Premier President, and later Premier Padmini, which was named after a princess from Mewar who lived in the 14th century and was also known by the name Padmavati.
Industry sources claim that the colour scheme of these compact yet retro-charm exhibiting cars was suggested to Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru by freedom fighter Vithal Balkrishna Gandhi, who went on to become an MP. The idea was for the taxis to be black on the bottom to hide any spots or stains and yellow on top to make them visible from a distance.
Kaali-peeli Taxis: A Bollywood Favourite
In addition to being a common means of transportation for many tourists and Mumbaikars, the timeless taxis have long been a favourite of the Indian Cinema and television fraternity. The four-wheeler has also been the subject of numerous citywide photography projects. This four-wheeled marvel has appeared in films such as Aa Ab Laut Chale, Khaali-Peeli, and Taxi No. 9211, to name a few.
Kaali-peeli Taxis: Will These Icons Be Preserved For Future Generations to See?
It is reported that the Maharashtra government has been requested to preserve a small number of Kaali Peelis, but it is quite doubtful that the response will be favourable. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, as well as several Bollywood celebrities and well-known people, have shared their memories of the Kaali-peelies and praised this remarkable city mover's legendary heritage.
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