Strangers in the Rear view Mirror

 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.