A tribute to all the Delhi auto rickshaws and autowalas we come across everyday!
We Delhiites are so skillful when it comes to using resources cleverly. But on the flip side, when we hop on to an auto rickshaw, we quarrel our way to paying a fare we think is 'fair'. The funny part of this? We also end up feeling sorry for the rickshaw-walas and sometimes just give him the money he asks for -- trust me, no negotiation whatsoever!
Auto rickshaws are like the bread and butter of the capital city. Of course, there are times when they drive us insane, but they are more often than not the ones who help us reach even the farthest of our destinations.
So here's a tribute to all the Delhi auto rickshaws and autowalas we come across everyday!
When they just 'let the music play'
Photograph: Meena Kadri/Creative Commons
No matter how many times you ask the driver to turn down the volume of the new item song being played, the creepy lines just seem to play louder and louder every time. But they do make you laugh at the end of it all! After all, turn down for what?
When they gave you the 'actual directions'
Photograph: Nita Bhalla/Reuters
Ever got lost in the city? You might come across people who point left, right and center when you ask for directions -- but an autowala will tell you the best way possible, without making it sound all too confusing. Guiding light is what I call them every time I can't seem to find the directions myself.
When they become a part of your crazy friends outing
Photograph: Toru Hanai/Reuters
Remember how the six of you got into one auto? Well, wasn't that fun! There is an exceptional sense of joy in doing crazy things and autowalas never seem to mind it. Crushing your friends to the side, making some sit on your lap or sometimes right next to the driver -- who else lets you do this?
When they saved you from parking woes
Photograph: Ahmad Masood/Reuters
Ever been to Sarojini Nagar or CP for that matter? The parking at these places are always full -- no matter how early you reach, there just seem to be far too many cars all the time! If you have made the trip by auto, you know how easy it all was -- hop on, listen to dhinchak music, pay up and hop off! Now, did you just forget thanking the autowala?
When they went all glam
Photograph: Parivartan Sharma/Reuters
Every second auto you spot on the streets, will have some really fancy decor or funny name scribbled over it. Be it the shiny Dhanno, or Basanti -- each one has a personality of its own. And if you're really up for some fun and limelight-hogging, you know which ones to choose!
To be honest, autos across all cities have these fun sides to them; we just end up being so busy in our lives that we more often than not treat them as a mere means of transport.
So, the next time you step out, hop onto one and don't worry about the change or the khulle paise -- you might just enjoy that money conversation before entering your office!
ALSO SEE:
