[dhrubojyoti]

Statutory Warning:

If you're a newcomer planning to join the West Bengal Team-BHP gang for an overnighter, be warned, your initiation ritual involves being assigned the sacred task of documenting the entire meet. Yes, that means you write the report.

The veterans? Oh, they’ll ensure you feel like a college fresher again, regardless of whether you’re in your roaring twenties or your dignified fifties. They call it “ragging.” You’ll call it “bonding.” Since joining this group, I’ve started aging backwards, think Benjamin Button, but with more horsepower and less Hollywood drama.

So choose wisely. If you're worried about losing your composure or "dignity" in the face of relentless banter and brotherhood, this may not be your kind of ride. But if you're in for laughs, late-night drives, and lifelong memories, welcome aboard.

The Planning: All Roads Began with NomadicLife

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have recently been added to the unofficial Team-BHP WhatsApp group of West Bengal, a lively digital adda where wheels turn as fast as the conversations. It was there that the first sparks of our overnighter were ignited.

When talk of the trip began, one thing became clear very quickly: everyone turned to just one person to make the magic happen, NomadicLife.

At first, I was intrigued. Why just him? Later, I understood. He's not just a planner; he’s a magician. With an ease that almost felt unfair, he laid out multiple venue options, complete with accommodation and food details, as if he were ordering off a menu. Coordinating such a large group for an overnight trip is no joke, but he made it look like one.

And the best part? All we had to do was drive. We showed up, parked our cars, and instantly slipped into what became one of the most carefree and joy-filled days of our lives. Behind the scenes? NomadicLife worked like clockwork, ensuring every little detail was handled, and yet, he never let it show.

Some people plan trips. He curates experiences.

The Convoy Commander: Neversaygbye

While NomadicLife worked his behind-the-scenes magic, the man who took charge on the road was none other than Neversaygbye, our co-organizer and the unofficial Convoy Commander.

With his dark shades and calm demeanor, his resemblance to Robert De Niro from Taxi Driver was uncanny, though instead of asking “You talkin’ to me?”, he was more likely to ask, “All cars accounted for?” Always keeping a watchful eye, he ensured that every car in our long line of machines made it to the venue safely and smoothly.

But don’t let the cool exterior fool you. Beneath those shades is a heart that’s gentle, caring, and ever-alert to everyone’s needs. He may have looked like a movie character, but his actions reflected a real-life hero on the highway.

Ageless Rebels on the Road

There’s something I’ve been meaning to confess. I seriously question the stated age of this group. Sure, their driving licenses say they’re in their late thirties to early fifties. But spend five minutes with them and you’ll realize - mentally, emotionally, and spiritually; none of them has aged past eighteen.

Don’t believe me? Come along for the next overnighter and see for yourself. Just be ready for a wild ride full of laughter, late-night banter, and a whole lot of harmless mischief. Consider this your official invitation and challenge.

The May 2025 Overnighter: Attendee Roll Call

Here’s the legendary lineup of the May 2025 overnighter of the West Bengal Team-BHP crew:

1. NomadicLife
2. Neversaygbye
3. Mile_Breaker
4. OpenRoads
5. Ask99
6. shourya_lahiri
7. shuvc
8. hok kolorob
9. sdg4wheels
10. SchrödingersCar
11. Cr4nkshaft
12. DJR
13. DevOnWheels
14. edunata
15. kousikjana
16. H0rsepower
17. Octane1002
18. predatorwheelz
19. dip27in
20. cdibya
21. Ghostrider28
22. Ritkon
23. Mobilethunder
24. red7778
25. dhrubojyoti

Where the Engines Roared & Conversations Began: Breakfast at Azad Hind Dhaba

The day kicked off just as any epic road trip should, with breakfast at the iconic Azad Hind Dhaba, Uluberia. Known far and wide for its authentic Punjabi cuisine, it’s a staple stop for every hungry traveller, and a dream spot for petrolheads needing space for both their cars and their appetites.

The massive parking lot didn’t stay empty for long. One by one, the Bhpians rolled in, and soon the entire space was packed with an eye-popping display of automotive passion. This was already shaping up to be the largest West Bengal overnighter ever.

For me, this moment was nothing short of surreal. It was my very first meet.
And here I was, not just watching from behind a screen or reading posts from afar, but sitting at the same table, in the same air, with people I’d admired for years. The

gurus

. The

legends

of Team-BHP. The very folks whose travelogues had me daydreaming, whose technical deep dives made me look at engines like art, and who once navigated India with paper maps while Google Maps was still in kindergarten.

I was living a fanboy dream. Honestly, I could barely talk. I just sat there in awe, listening, soaking in every word, every laugh, every story.

A Surprise Entry: Mobilethunder from Hyderabad

Just when we thought the lineup was set, we got a surprise, and a very pleasant one. Bhpian Mobilethunder joined us last minute, having travelled to Kolkata from Hyderabad to visit his relatives. But once he heard about the overnighter, he couldn’t miss it. And we’re so glad he didn’t. Soft-spoken, warm, and full of good vibes, he seamlessly became part of the group. I was lucky enough to share a room with him later that evening, and the conversations we had, made the experience even more memorable.

Breakfast That Turned Into a Feast, and a Mini Festival

The breakfast at Azad Hind Dhaba was nothing short of a culinary carnival.

From Punjabi parathas to Bengali luchis, South Indian dosas to even some Chinese dishes that snuck onto the plates, it was every food lover’s dream. Whether you were a die-hard non-vegetarian or a devoted vegetarian, a chai addict or a coffee purist, there was something for everyone. And the beverages? Countless cups - hot, cold, sweet, strong. The mugs kept coming.

I’m fairly certain we occupied half of their AC dining hall, and the staff probably needed a team meeting just to process our collective appetite. Once the plates were cleared, no one was in a hurry to leave. The parking lot turned into our open-air adda zone, echoing with laughter, old war stories, new introductions, and lots of friendly leg-pulling. Cameras clicked non-stop, freezing moments we’d probably scroll through for months afterward.

Yes, we were already behind schedule. And no, not a single soul cared. As some wise road-tripper once said, “It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey.” And ours had well and truly begun.

The Jungle Beckons: The Drive to Mukutmanipur

Azad Hind Dhaba, bless it, also had a fuel station next door. A few of us topped up our tanks, did a quick round of checks, and soon, the convoy was rolling out, heading toward Mukutmanipur, roughly 200 kilometers away.

But the road wasn’t all that awaited us. We had one more addition to the gang, waiting at the destination, bhpian red7778, a local from nearby who would join us directly at the resort. Another enthusiast, another story, another piece of the puzzle falling into place.

The engines roared to life, the Google Maps (and a few old-school minds) synced up, and just like that, the journey was in full throttle.

The Convoy Rolls Out: A Dream in Motion

With engines humming and hearts racing, a convoy of around 20 cars rolled out from Azad Hind Dhaba - a sight that could make any petrolhead’s heart skip a beat.

For me, it was pure adrenaline. Many of these cars had once lived on the pages of magazines I’d read, posters I’d stuck on walls, and dreams I’d dreamed with open eyes. Now they were right in front of me - polished, pristine, and maintained to the high standard that only Bhpians know how to keep. I followed from behind, admiring each one, watching their silhouettes move in unison - a graceful dance of machines and their proud drivers.

Through the Jungle: Kharagpur to Goaltore

We reached Kharagpur and took a right turn towards Goaltore, and that’s when the drive transformed from thrilling to transcendent. The 50-kilometer stretch between Kharagpur and Goaltore is a stunner - a road that carves its way through the dense Sal and Sagwan forests, rich with earthy greens and soft sunlight filtering through the canopy. This section is also known for elephant crossings, and the wild energy of the place made you want to slow down and soak in every moment.

The scenery was too good to just drive past. So we didn’t. We pulled over for a well-deserved photo session. Every car lined up like a perfectly choreographed automotive ballet.

But wait, it wasn’t just about photos. The heat was merciless, and right on cue, Neversaygbye’s Safari opened up like a mobile oasis. His car came equipped with a freezer! Yes, you read that right, and out came lassi, cold drinks, fruit juices. Hydration, happiness, and horsepower - the holy trinity of summer road trips.

The Final Stretch: Into Rural Bengal

After the refreshing break, we continued on the single-lane roads that wound through the soul of rural Bengal. Small villages, expansive farmlands, dense jungles, and open grasslands - the route was a moving painting, the kind that quietly fills your heart without needing words.

Arrival at the Resort: A Grand Entry

As we rolled into the resort, it was déjà vu; the entire parking lot was soon filled with Bhpians' cars, yet again. The welcome drinks were a cool relief, and room allocations were smooth. By now, it was already half past two, and our appetites had caught up with us.

We gathered in the dining hall, where a lavish buffet awaited. Veg and non-veg dishes alike, from paneer to fish to melt-in-the-mouth mutton, greeted us with tempting aromas and even better taste. It wasn’t just a meal. It was a celebration of food, of friendship, of finally being here.

[dhrubojyoti]

So Much for Rest: The Great Room Hijack

The post-lunch plan was simple: head to our respective rooms, catch a quick nap, and regroup in the evening. That’s what the schedule said. But when you put a group of mentally-teenaged Bhpians in a resort, the only thing that rests is the itinerary.

Before long, we had crowded into a single room, like college hostelers on the first night of semester break. Every inch of floor, sofa, and bed was claimed as we laughed, joked, and roasted each other with the kind of carefree joy that only comes when everyone speaks the same language - that of engines, exhaust notes, and endless banter.

The peak summer afternoon didn’t stand a chance; it was cooled with a steady supply of ice creams and cold drinks, passed around like party favors.

I genuinely felt bad for the room’s AC. It wheezed and puffed, trying its best to cool a room packed with horsepower and high-decibel laughter. Somewhere in its wiring, it probably cried.

And yet, amid all this, something shifted. Despite it being my first meet, I felt like I’d known these people for years. There was no pretence, no formality; just pure, unfiltered connection.

And then someone asked: “Shall we freshen up for the evening meet?”

Splash Hour: The Poolside Olympics

Hold that thought. There was one more pit stop before evening could officially begin - the swimming pool.

As the sun dipped and a cool breeze began to sway the trees, the pro swimmers of Team-BHP sprang into action. By "pro," of course, we mean those who proudly jumped into waist-deep water with safety tubes and rings, ready to display their Olympic medal-worthy talents in - floating. What followed was less Michael Phelps, more synchronized comedy.
There were splash battles, mid-water debates, and a few “Look, I can float!” demos that defied both physics and dignity.

The sky darkened, but the swimming pool conference showed no signs of wrapping up.

We weren’t just cooling off, we were soaking in the fun.

The “Civilized” Evening: Lights, Laughter, and Lawn Adda

Eventually, the time came for what was officially titled the “civilized gathering.” Of course, anyone who knows Bhpians knows that the only thing truly civilized was probably the venue itself - a large, air-conditioned conference room arranged by none other than the magician himself.

There were multiple ACs humming away, spotlights on a center stage, a booming sound system, and, of course, an endless supply of snacks to keep the engines of conversation well-lubricated.

The music? Loud.
The mood? Electric.
The vibes? Immaculate.

Musicians, Mercy & Mayhem

Now, among us were a few self-proclaimed musicians - including one noble soul whose repertoire included only melancholic tunes, sung with earnest but questionable guitar strumming. Thankfully, the audience (a.k.a. the rest of us) was in a generous mood. He was gracefully spared from plunging the room into emotional turmoil, and the evening was saved from becoming an impromptu breakup concert.

From Stage to Stars

As the music played and the laughter echoed, the energy spilled out of the conference room and onto the adjacent grass lawn. What began as a gathering became a festival of friendship.

Then came the real showstoppers. The center stage lit up once more, this time under the spotlight of truly talented Bhpians. Dancers, performers, and storytellers took their turn - each met with cheers, applause, and occasional standing ovations. It was a night where engines took a backseat and art took the wheel.

The Perfect Close: Dinner for the Soul

As the night wound down, we gathered once more - this time around the dinner tables. A spread of mouth-watering dishes brought the day to a flavourful end. Veg, non-veg, local, and comfort classics - there was something for every palate and more than enough to keep us lingering, chatting, and laughing into the late hours.

It wasn’t just a dinner. It was a celebration of a day well lived - a memory stitched together with food, music, friends, and a shared love for the road.

Midnight Madness: The Dam, the Drive, and the Depth of It All

By the time the evening officially "ended," it was already past midnight, but no one was ready to let go of the magic just yet. A few of us decided to head out and explore the surroundings, with one place in mind: the Mukutmanipur Dam, quietly resting under the stars. Known as the second-largest earthen dam in India, it's an awe-inspiring sight even in daylight. But at midnight? It was otherworldly.

A small convoy of cars made its way toward the dam. The silence was profound, broken only by the soft hum of engines and the occasional whisper of the wind across the massive water body. Standing there, under a sky full of stars, dwarfed by the sheer scale of the dam - we felt tiny, humbled by nature’s quiet power.

There was no plan, no destination. Just aimless driving, soft conversations, and the kind of peace that only comes when the world is asleep. By the time we looked at the clock, we realized we’d been out for nearly two hours.

Back at the Resort: Adda, The Sequel

Meanwhile, back at the resort, the midnight adda continued strong in one of the rooms. When we returned, we instinctively gravitated toward yet another session of late-night chitchat, laughter still flowing freely, even as the clock ticked well past 3 AM.

Eventually, though, even the most hardcore of us had to surrender. We exchanged final “good nights”, not that anyone really meant it the first few times, and finally made our way to our rooms.

For me, it was the end of a 40-hour marathon, having pulled an all-nighter for urgent office work the previous evening. And while my body was beyond exhausted, my heart was full. The moment my head hit the pillow, I didn’t just fall asleep, I collapsed into it, with a smile still lingering.

[dhrubojyoti]

The Morning After: One Last Drive, One Last Memory

The sun rose on our final day at Mukutmanipur, and though sleep had been in short supply, energy levels were still sky high, probably powered by adrenaline, joy, and the lingering beats of the previous night.

After yet another sumptuous breakfast, the full convoy set off once more for the dam, this time as a united front. We navigated some light off-road patches, bouncing gently in our seats, until we reached a spot close to the waterbody. And just like that, we found ourselves surrounded by nature’s masterpiece - the vast, glimmering expanse of the dam in full daylight.

Out came the cameras again. Another round of photoshoots commenced - vehicles lined up with pride, posing against the backdrop of blue water and open skies. Every frame was postcard-worthy. This wasn’t just a casual stop. It was our final chapter at Mukutmanipur, and we soaked in every second.

The Return: Stories Woven into the Roads

We began our return journey, but not along the same route. Instead, like true explorers, we charted multiple paths toward Belpahari, each group taking a different slice of rural Bengal.

Some braved earthen village roads, winding through narrow lanes, sleepy cattle, and curious villagers. Others found PMGSY concrete paths, clean and narrow, cutting through serene hamlets and emerald fields. Every route had a story, and soon, so did every group.

We chose to follow KousikJana, who knows this region like the back of his hand. He led us down a stunning stretch of State Highway, framed with dense greenery and tranquil scenery, the kind of road that whispers to you, “Slow down and enjoy the ride.”

Eventually, the convoy regrouped at Belpahari, ready for the final push toward Kolaghat, the destination for our closing meal.

The Grand Finale: Biriyani at Aminia, Kolaghat

By afternoon, we reached Aminia in Kolaghat, a place revered for its biryani and the perfect setting for our last gathering. Those who arrived early quickly secured tables for the entire team, and before long, the feast was on.

Plates arrived fast, and so did the flavors. While everyone picked dishes to their liking, most couldn’t resist the call of Aminia’s legendary biryani. And rightly so, it was the kind of meal that made you forget the miles behind and the Monday ahead.

Of course, not all roads end in paradise. A couple of members, trying to beat the crowd, ventured to a different outlet, only to return with tales of mediocre food and forgettable service. We offered them our heartfelt condolences and, perhaps more painfully, photos of our plates.

Parting Ways, But Not for Long

As the sun began to dip and the cars slowly dispersed, one thing was clear, this wasn’t just a weekend getaway. It was a collection of moments, memories, and motor-mad friendships that would stay with us long after the trip meter reset to zero.

We came in as enthusiasts. We left as a family on four wheels.

The Final Stretch: And a Heart Full of Thanks

Eventually, it was time to say those reluctant words: “Goodbye… for now.” With promises to reunite at the next opportunity, the next excuse, the next open road, we each set off on our final leg home.

I reached home by evening, my odometer marking the end of nearly 600 kilometers of driving. But the real journey? That was measured in memories, laughter, and the invisible threads of connection formed with every kilometer.

Incredibly, I didn’t click a single photo during the entire trip. Not one. I was just too engrossed in the moments, soaking in the stories, the vibe, and the sheer joy of being surrounded by such passionate, like-minded souls.

Thankfully, the true masters behind the lenses had us all covered. Every snapshot, every frame, captured and shared generously in our WhatsApp group, has now become part of a digital time capsule I’ll return to over and over.

To everyone who made this happen, to those who welcomed me like I’d always belonged, and to this charming, crazy, magnetic gang of Bhpians, I can’t thank you enough.

For the memories. For the madness. For letting me be myself, nonsense and all.

Take a bow, Team-BHP West Bengal. Until we ride again.

[BlackPearl]

Thread moved out from the Assembly Line. Thanks for sharing!

[quad_exhaust]

Boy oh boy! It felt like I was a part of the convoy, the group, the fun, the banter and the journey. All thanks to your immersive writing. Now I'm getting major FOMO from not being able to join the meet. I'll try my best to be a part of the upcoming meets and these breathtaking adventures. I must say it was a pretty wise decision to let you write the report. Keep it up sir.





P.S. I hope I'm not given the responsibility of documenting the first meet I take part in because I'm pretty sure I won't be able to come up with something half as good as this.

[Mile_Breaker]

Dhruba, a superb representation of the two days of madness we had ! This overnighter (as we in WB TeamBHP call such event!) at Mukutmanipur recorded the maximum number of participation that we have had so far. Crazy heads made an effort just to be present in this milieu. Some rushed from Delhi, some postponed business meeting, some joined at the very last minute and some who couldn't make it to the final destination drove till the breakfast venue. And this was only possible because of the ever welcoming NomadicLife who singlehandedly took all the pain to get these car-lovers jam at one place. He is our event manager, organizer, choreographer, DJ, an all-in-one go to person. The beauty of such gathering is also to discover and know more of each other. And we did find out how good a singer you are Dhruba ! Your strumming and churning of our favorite melodies one by one kept us glued till late hours of the evening. And then it was your ride the 5 door giant Gurkha which was the crowd puller ! Overall it was a total fun weekend and the wait begins for the next one !

[shourya_lahiri]

It was like reliving our meet all over again! Every detail, every event, was so well-captured. This just proves how incredible our trip was - a true rollercoaster of emotions. We accomplished so much in such a short time. I guess that’s what happens when we get together with like-minded folks. Your writing skills are just as impressive as your singing and guitar skills (let’s not even talk about your driving skills with your Gurkha - you didn’t mention that in the post, did you?). Thanks a bunch for that amazing musical evening where you effortlessly took the stage and mesmerized us with your incredible songs from your treasure trove. You also went above and beyond by catering to each of our requests. And that late-night adventure near the dam! It was so much fun!


Shaam-e-naghmaa with dhrubojyoti..








Hachiko, he’s hiding under the massive shadow cast by Dhrubojyoti’s mighty Gurkha





Sadly I missed the fun you guys had the next day, I had to leave for home due to an unforeseen event. Will be sure to make it up next time.

Here’s to more such fun filled escapades ahead
Cheers!

[kousikjana]

Fantastic. Your writing skill is as good as your singing and driving.

What a trip it was, enjoyed it throughout. I visited Mukutmanipur many times as it is very close to our village. But it was completely different experience with unlimited fun, laughter and food.

Coming to drive, I had a tough time keeping up pace in those village roads full of speed breakers, with other SUVs as my Figo was the only hatchback in the convoy.

Thankfully, while coming back I got company of Mobilethunder (Murali) with Jimmy and Dhrubojyoti with Gurkha, who driven all the way in moderate speed.

Few pics from my side...

[Rapid]

I really want to join the next one, from Kolkata! Will a blue BMW X1, from 2017 be accounted for? You have two choices: A white Honda City 5th generation, or a Mediterranean Blue BMW X1 from 2017. Your call!

[dhrubojyoti]

Originally Posted by shourya_lahiri

It was like reliving our meet all over again

Thanks buddy!

I'm glad it managed to capture, even in part, the fun and camaraderie we shared. Putting such a heartfelt experience into words felt almost impossible; it truly was a grand celebration.

Originally Posted by Rapid

I really want to join the next one, from Kolkata! Will a blue BMW X1, from 2017 be accounted for? You have two choices: A white Honda City 5th generation, or a Mediterranean Blue BMW X1 from 2017. Your call!

Amazing! Please bring both! Seeing them will be a visual treat!”

[ambarish6]

Excellent would be an understatement for this engrossing overnight meetup. While reading it I felt as if I was present with you all. Articulations were extremely good and your feelings were expressed beautifully with such lively photos. These are the moments that one cherishes to make memories which keeps on coming back again and again.

Best thing which I liked was every single person was brimming with happiness from beginning to end.

Thank you for such a brilliant write up and all your efforts in doing so.

[Rapid]

Originally Posted by dhrubojyoti

Thanks buddy!

Amazing! Please bring both! Seeing them will be a visual treat!”

I am a 12 year old, and my father is only capable of driving one car at a time! So,
Choose one!

[OpenRoads]

A big shout-out to Dhrubojyoti for penning this event in its truest form — what a beautiful write-up! I was fortunate enough to be right there with you all, soaking in the conversations, laughter, and that unbeatable Team-BHP spirit (unofficial). It just keeps getting better and better with every meet. Special thanks to NomadicLife and Neversaygbye for flawlessly planning and executing this one — everything was spot on.

[Neversaygbye]

Originally Posted by dhrubojyoti

Statutory Warning:

If you're a newcomer planning to join the West Bengal Team-BHP gang for an overnighter, be warned, your initiation ritual involves being assigned the sacred task of documenting the entire meet. Yes, that means you write the report.

The veterans? Oh, they’ll ensure you feel like a college fresher again, regardless of whether you’re in your roaring twenties or your dignified fifties. They call it “ragging.” You’ll call it “bonding.”

Well, while I would be the last person to support ragging in any form, I suppose bonding masquerading as ragging has its uses, especially when the outcome is something as phenomenal as this report. I racked my brains and still couldn't think of any other report (or meet) that was as good as this one. You have hit it out of the park my friend, and apart from being an intrepid traveler and a minstrel, you are also quite the wordsmith, as we can all see. It's like you distilled all our experiences into words and concocted a heady potion in letters that brought back memories of the trip in vivid detail to those who attended and at the same time also shone a beacon to prospective future attendees of such trips. Loved every word of the report though there is just one part that I have an issue with - while I'm grateful for the name check, this entire trip was solely NomadicLife's doing and he is the only person who deserves credit. To more such trips, and more such reports - I have a suspicion that we will break tradition and make you the official report writer going forward as this kind of quality is hard to beat!

[sdg4wheels]

What a beautiful write-up and what an overnighter trip this has been with all of you. A special thanks to you Dhrubo for penning this down with what we call in car enthusiast words "with minute precision" .

As always would be hopeful for this kind of trip to be again planned soon.