Strangers in the Rear view Mirror
Grab a packet of Churmuri and buckle up. Navigating the
streets of Namma Mysuru in an auto-rickshaw is an unparalled experience. While other cities have their own
vibes, Mysuru’s "Auto-anna" is a unique
character. Here is a breakdown of the types of drivers you are sure to encounter
on your trips across the Heritage City:
1.The Clock Tower-Ashoka Road toughie
::This driver has spent so many years
in the bustling traffic that he has developed a permanent
scowl. He views the road as a battlefield. He weaves through gaps that don't
exist, honks with a rhythmic intensity, and provides a running commentary in
Kannada about the poor state of the city's Roads (& his favourite lanes)
.2. The
"One-and-Half" Specialist:This character doesn't believe in the
standard meter. Every destination, no matter how close, is "One-and-half"
or a flat "One fifty" regardless of the distance. He calculates
fares using a secret mathematical formula known only to him, usually peaking
during rains or peak hours.
3. The Kannada Pandit::This
is the tech-savvy driver who is proud of his roots. He might have posters
inside the auto teaching you basic Kannada phrases like "Yelli?" (Where?)
or "Swalpa
Adjust Maadkoli" (Adjust a little). He is happy to take you
anywhere as long as you make an effort to speak at least a few words of his mathrubashe”
4. The Mobile Philosopher:The
moment you hop in, the podcast begins. He doesn't need a guest; he has opinions
on everything from the latest Sandalwood movie plot to causes of global warming. Even if you have your
headphones on, he will ensure you hear his thoughts on why the Renovation of
the City’s Heritage Buildings is
taking so long
.5. The interior decorator :This driver treats his auto like a palace. It is adorned with golden
tassles , pictures of legendary actor Dr.
Rajkumar,the Maharajas of Mysore or even glamour girls of
Bollywood in various get-up and enough LED lights to be seen from
space. The Audio system is top-notch,
playing high-energy Kannada hits that turn your commute into a mini-concert.
6.The "Kotyadhipathi":For this driver, your destination is
merely a suggestion. He is the master of his own destiny. If you ask to go to
Siddharthanagar, he might decide he prefers the air in Vontikoppal today. He
will simply shake his head, say "No," ( baralla) and
drive off with the arrogance of a billionaire who doesn't actually need the
fare
7.The "Namma" Legend :A rare and
cherished find. This driver turns the
meter down without being asked, knows all the shortcuts to avoid the main road
traffic, and doesn't complain about the potholes. He is the hero of the streets. If you find him, make sure to give
him a five-star rating on your app or a generous tip, because he is keeping the
spirit of the Royal city alive.
So there you have it. The seven types of auto legends.
