Bengaluru luxury cars are like Virat Kohli in gully cricket: Founder questions logic behind Rs 2 crore car purchase

In recent years, India has seen a surge in luxury car ownership, reflecting both rising disposable incomes and evolving notions of status. While such vehicles are symbols of success for some, their practicality in congested urban environments is increasingly questioned. Major cities like Bengaluru, notorious for traffic jams, narrow roads, and potholes, provide a stark contrast to the highways and open roads these cars are designed for. This mismatch between aspiration and reality has sparked conversations on whether such purchases are truly sensible or merely performative.

Bengaluru Roads vs Luxury Machines
Karnvir Mundrey, founder of a PR firm, highlighted this issue on LinkedIn after observing a friend buy a ₹2 crore car. When asked why, the friend responded that it would impress people. Mundrey argued that a smaller, practical car paired with clear financial credibility could have served the same purpose with far less depreciation and more utility. He likened driving an S-Class in Bengaluru to hiring cricket superstar Virat Kohli for a gully match — a luxury that far exceeds the environment it’s placed in.

The post generated diverse opinions. Some commentor emphasized comfort and experience, noting that traveling in an S-Class allows quiet, smooth rides even in traffic. Mundrey countered that such vehicles are optimal on highways, not city streets.

Others considered economic and societal factors. One person pointed out that government taxes on luxury cars redistribute wealth, while another suggested that such spending fuels the economy by generating jobs and supporting dealerships.

Rethinking the Meaning of Status

Environmental and urban planning angles also surfaced. A commentor highlighted that massive cars with single occupants worsen congestion and pollution, advocating for carpooling as a more practical, socially responsible approach — a view Mundrey supported.

Ultimately, the debate centered on purpose and prudence. One person questioned the logic of buying a Rs 2 crore car merely to impress strangers, another Yadav noted that some owners value craftsmanship, personalization, and legacy, not just speed or status. Mundrey concluded that true status lies in making purchases with awareness of context and intent, rather than simply chasing external validation.