Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Mar 30: Passengers often get annoyed at the auto rickshaw drivers either because they are hesitant to take them to the destinations of their choice or because they demand excessive fare. However, we have to bear in mind that some of them are well educated and are running the three-wheelers to support their families which is their responsibility. Many overlook these things and view auto drivers with disdain.

A person who earlier worked as a lecturer in Mumbai has been operating an auto rickshaw for a living in the city after retirement. He converses with his passengers in his polished English. One has to travel with  him  in his three-wheeler to experience his knowledge and fluency.

Nikhita Aiyer, a professional, admits in her post that she was shocked when she heard him speaking in English. People were surprised when she revealed that her auto rickshaw driver speaks English without mistake. Growing curious, she questioned him and came to know that he had earlier served as a lecturer in Mumbai. She told the driver about her destination, which is her office, located on the other end of the city. 

The driver spoke with her in English and she was taken by surprise. He was very polite, cooperative and the lady came to know that he held MA and MEd degrees.

The driver in question, Pattabhiraman, told Nikhita that when he was hunting for employment in Karnataka, people often questioned about his caste. Frustrated, he went to Mumbai and worked as a lecturer.  He has been running the auto for the last 14 years after his retirement. He told Nikhita that teachers in colleges get not more than Rs 10,000 to 15,0000 a month but running of an auto rickshaw brings income of Rs 20,000 to 40,000 per month.

"This money is sufficient for me and my friend," he said, duly acknowledging that he prefers to call his wife a friend to give a sense of equality. He is very appreciative of his wife who he says is superior to him in some aspects. He admitted that his son pays the house rent and other than that he does not expect any other support from his son who lives separately.

Nikhita Aiyer says in her post that the man has no complaint about life, no remorse. Her post, which is four days old, has got over 73,000 likes and more than 2,300 have shared it.