“It was a sultry afternoon at J.P. Nagar, and I was trying to catch an auto for the past half an hour. Having been rejected by a number of auto Drivers, I was finally greeted with a smile by Mr. Rajesh.

We started a conversation on how Bangalore has changed over years. Mr. Rajesh surprisingly did not complain about the weather, which usually is my complaint most of the times. He exclaimed that the biggest evil according to him is noise pollution right now.

In his impeccable english, he told me he has not used his vehicle’s horn in 28 years. The last he used the horn  was in October, 1988. I was taken aback at this commendable feat that he had achieved.

This was his part towards protecting the environment. While he was in abroad for work,  he realised how blaring horns unnecessarily was equivalent to shouting at the other person.

He said, ‘People here start blaring their horns the moment the signal turns green, only to get stuck at the next signal‘.

I could relate to Mr Rajesh’s concern – traffic jams in Bangalore are infamous, the incessant blaring of horns at the signals makes it even more unbearable.

He told how he is highly inspired by blind people and their humble way of living. A blind person though does not have eyes, he sees the world in a very nurturing and alert way. Mr. Rajesh wishes drivers are more cautious and alert while driving which will ultimately reduce them honking at others.

He has many stories to tell, if you happen to meet him, do strike a conversation. He does not want to preach, but he says he will be blessed if he can bring about a change in the life of even one person.”

Story By – Pooja Prahlad Singh

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