Mr. G. D. Gopal inducted into the FIVA Heritage Hall of Fame 2025
A Global Honour for Indian Automotive Heritage
On 17th October 2025, a day that marked the grand inauguration of the Performance Car Section at GD Museums, another historic milestone was achieved — one that placed India firmly on the global map of automotive heritage.
On this very occasion, Mr. G. D. Gopal, Chairman of G. D. Naidu Charities, was formally inducted into the FIVA Heritage Hall of Fame 2025, one of the highest international recognitions in the field of historic vehicle preservation.
About FIVA – Guardians of Automotive Heritage
FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens) is the world’s apex organization dedicated to the preservation, protection, and promotion of historic vehicles. Representing millions of enthusiasts across continents, FIVA safeguards automotive heritage as a vital part of global cultural and technological history.
Induction into FIVA’s Heritage Hall of Fame is reserved for individuals whose contribution has left a lasting global impact. With this honour, Mr. G. D. Gopal becomes only the second Indian to ever receive this recognition — and notably, the only living Indian to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
The Award Ceremony
The award was conferred by Mr. Ramin Salehkhou, Vice President of FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens), in a dignified ceremony held on 17th October 2025, coinciding with the inauguration celebrations of the Performance Car Section.
The ceremony was witnessed by an esteemed gathering that included:
⭐ Mr. Gowtham Sen, Advisor, FIVA
⭐ Dr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services, Government of Tamil Nadu
⭐Mr. B. K. Krishnaraj Vanavarayar, Chairman, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Coimbatore
⭐ Mr. Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar, IAS, District Collector, Coimbatore
Family members, friends, heritage enthusiasts, and well-wishers joined in celebrating a moment that blended pride, legacy, and global recognition.
A Legacy Rooted in Preservation and Purpose
Under Mr. Gopal’s leadership, GD Museums have emerged as institutions of international repute — preserving India’s industrial, scientific, and automotive milestones while presenting them as living narratives rather than static displays.
His work reflects a deep-rooted belief that heritage is meaningful only when it educates, inspires, and connects generations. This philosophy has guided the evolution of GD Museums into spaces where history, innovation, and storytelling converge.
A Moment of National Pride
The induction of Mr. G. D. Gopal into the FIVA Heritage Hall of Fame 2025 is not just a personal achievement — it is a moment of pride for India, Coimbatore, and the global heritage community.
Being the only living Indian and the second Indian overall to receive this honour, Mr. Gopal’s recognition stands as a powerful reminder of India’s growing role in the global preservation of automotive history.
This honour reaffirms the mission of GD Museums — to protect the past, celebrate innovation, and inspire the future.
Our chairman Mr. GD Gopal conferred with the FIVA heritage Hall of FAME award-2025
Mr Ramin Saleikhou, Vice President of FIVA addressing the gathering
Pavankumar G Giriyappanavar, collector of Coimbatore, addressing the gathering
Our Trustee Mr. GD Rajkumar honoring Dr.Palanivel Thiagarajan, Minister of Information Technology and Digital Services, with a shawl
Our trustee Ms. Akila Shanmugam, presenting a souvenir to Mr. Gowtham Sen, FIVA advisor
Our Trustee Ms. Akila Shanmugam giving a present to one of the FIVA committee guests.
