The Ambassador
To Amby with love.
For anyone who grew up in late 80’s & 90’s India, the Ambassador car holds a unique and cherished place in the heart. It’s more than just a vehicle; it's a symbol of nostalgia, a connection to an era when life seemed simpler and every journey was an adventure. At Joshi Collective, we celebrate this connection to the past, blending Indian heritage with contemporary fashion and design. That’s why when we set out to create a campaign steeped in Indian nostalgia, the iconic Ambassador car became the perfect choice for our photoshoot.
In Bombay (today’s Mumbai), we had to go to some lengths to find an Ambassador we could rent for the shoot. Surprisingly, it was quite the task, though if this shoot were done in Calcutta (today’s Kolkata), the story would be different. There, these cars still decorate the streets, a lasting homage to the city’s historical relationship with the Ambassador.
The Amby: A Symbol of Indian Identity
The Indian Ambassador car, affectionately known as the "Amby," is one of the most iconic automobiles in Indian history. Manufactured by Hindustan Motors, the Ambassador first hit Indian roads in 1958 and quickly became synonymous with both the Indian government and the everyday Indian family. With its wide, curvaceous body and spacious interior, the Ambassador was perfectly built for Indian roads and lifestyles.The Ambassador became deeply ingrained in Indian culture, appearing in countless Bollywood films and serving as a symbol of status and success.
Whether navigating through bustling city streets or traversing rough rural paths, the Ambassador was always up to the task. It was a car that everyone could rely on—whether it was ferrying dignitaries or carrying a family on long road trips. The Ambassador’s design wasn’t just about style; it was about function, resilience, and embodying the romance of Indian nostalgia. It was, in many ways, a reflection of India itself. A country that was emerging from colonial shadows and framing its own paths.
Joshi Collective: Bridging Indian Nostalgia with Modern Design
When we conceptualized our latest shoot at Joshi Collective, we really wanted this car to decorate our sets. The car, with its vintage charm and unmistakable presence, helped us evoke the essence of Indian nostalgia. Paired with our modern designs, it created a beautiful juxtaposition of past and present, old and new. It symbolized our commitment to keeping Indian heritage alive while pushing boundaries in design. In our brand’s journey, you will soon see traditional Indian shoes, other style elements being made in a modern element, almost calling for steps into the future with reflections of the path guiding our way forward.
Discover Joshi Collective: Where Heritage Meets Modernity
At Joshi Collective, we blend Indian nostalgia with modern design. Our collection pays homage to the rich cultural history of India, reimagined for today’s global audience. By incorporating iconic elements like the Ambassador car, the 10 Paisa coins, Indian traditional shoe designs, we stay connected to our roots while continuing to innovate and inspire. Our future designs, shoes, and other elements of the brand will always bring to you a touch of nostalgia, of travels, of emotion bells that often ring.
Visit [Joshi Collective - JOCO] (https://www.joshicollective.com) to explore our latest collection, inspired by the timeless elegance of Indian design and the modern sensibilities of today. Whether you’re looking for a piece that reminds you of home or something that brings a touch of India to your wardrobe, Joshi Collective is here to help you tell your story.
