“I couldn’t pursue education beyond class 10 due to financial constraints at home. At 18, I left my hometown Nagarkurnool and came to Hyderabad to make a living. Initially, I drove a rented taxi, but a significant portion of my earnings went to the car owner, leaving me with very little.

Determined to improve my situation, I decided to buy an auto rickshaw. Despite not having enough funds, I arranged the money to purchase my own rickshaw through EMI. My goal was to provide a happy and decent life for my family.

In my ride through life, there were these little adventures. Passengers would forget their treasures, wallets, phones. Despite my own struggles, I couldn’t bear to see someone lose something dear. So, I made it a point to track them down and return what was rightfully theirs. It might sound small, but those moments of honesty kept my spirit intact.

What makes my auto more than a mere vehicle is the people I meet. Every ride is a story, a connection with someone new. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about sharing cultures, and knowing their lifestyles. This auto isn’t just my bread and butter; it’s my gateway to life’s diverse experiences.”

• Mahesh, Auto Driver