Slice of Life: ‘My customer’s safety is my priority’

I came to Chennai from my hometown in Thoothukudi more than 20 years ago. I was just 19 then. I am the fifth child of my parents and I come from an economically backward family yet I studied till Class 10 and scored 366 out of 500. 

I could not continue schooling because of our financial condition. We decided to shift to Chennai. I worked as a sales executive in a textile shop for four years.

I got married in 2004 and now, I have two children. The salary from the textile shop was not enough to support my family. So, after a long struggle, I borrowed some money and bought an auto. It’s been more than seven years as an auto-driver and I am thankful how my life has changed for the better. 

Often, an auto driver is seen as the bad guy. But, for me, customer’s safety is my priority. Every morning, I take so many children to school. I feel responsible for them like a parent and look forward to spending time with them. I ask about their day, their preparations for exams, dreams and aspirations and other things. They inspire me in so many ways. During weekends, I get about 13 pick-ups, whereas on weekdays the number goes down to four or five. I try to get at least 35 pick-ups in a month without fail.

I live in a rented house and have to pay Rs 3,500 as rent every month. The loans can get frustrating but when I see the smiling faces of my kids all my tension disappears. I have a daughter studying in Class 3, and a boy in Class 7. 

Both are very good in academics. I want them to do really well in life. I may have faced a lot struggle in my life but I’ll never let my children suffer. I will ensure that they get proper higher education and great jobs in the future. But most importantly, I want them to become good human beings.