Autowallahs and I

Bangalorean authowallahs hate me. I get over-charged, taken for a ride, and am generally regarded with suspicion and mild contempt. I ride the auto way too much. Bangalore has an extensive and excellent bus system which is 1/10 the cost of traveling in an auto. And also perfectly comfortable. And yet… I have gotten too used to jutting out my arm, hailing an auto, sitting back and chilling.

Anyway. My story of one autowallah and his need to kick me out and curse me and my family. It was a long journey one mild, breezy day. The meter showed 80rupee and I was safe in my knowledge that I will reach my destination soon, without spending over a 100rupees. When all of a sudden, I hear grumblings. “Bahoot duur” (Very far) and “20 rupees extra, mam“. Irritated, I said, “No way. I am already paying you 10 rupees extra. I told you where I was going. This is why we already decided on 10 rupees extra.” More grumblings. “That’s it!“, I shout. “Let me out here!” He braked his auto, and said, “Get out!“. And then called me a bunch of names. I, in turn, told him to get lost, you shameless man. “Sharam chaiye!“

~ by Sonia on October 13, 2008.