True heroes are not known for their extraordinary powers, they are known for their extraordinary acts. Sunil Mishra is one of such heroes. For you and me, at the first look, he would appear as just another autowallah on the streets of Mumbai. However, if one were to ask people living in the slum of Ambujwadi, Sunil is no less than a ray of hope.

Mishra moved to Mumbai from his village in Pratapgarh in Uttar Pradesh when he was just ten years old. He went on to study at a local government school, however, he failed his 12th exam. Because of this, he had to take up the profession of an autorickshaw driver.

He has been living in the Ambujwadi slum from last 11 years now. He is barely able to meet the needs and necessities of his own family of four which includes him, his wife and two young children. Most of his salary goes in providing quality education to his kids. And the rest of which is remaining, he sends it to his parents who are living in UP. In fact, it was not until a few years back that he could afford to buy his own auto rickshaw, EMI of which he is still paying.

All this has not stopped Mishra to work tirelessly for ending the sufferings of those living in his locality. As they say, you don’t need big pockets, but a big heart to help another human, Mishra has been proving just that. The Ambujwadi slum is located in such a way that entry of large vehicles like ambulances inside it is restricted. Recognising this problem, Mishra has made sure that no ailing person is denied access to hospital and medical facility, just because of this problem.

From 2007, Mishra has managed to help many people in the slums by providing ambulance-like services with his auto. He understands the pain of seeing loved ones suffer. He recalls an incident where his own mother fell off a bike which severely injured her. Fortunately, she was taken to the hospital where she gradually recovered. It was then when Mishra pledged that he would do everything in his capacity to help anybody in such a situation. He says, “People sometimes come knocking at my door at midnight, asking for my help and I could not refuse them.”

Not only this, he even offers free rides to differently-abled persons. “If I see any differently-abled people, I stop to ask them where they are going. If it’s within 1.5 km, I drop them for free,” he says.

Recognising his noble deed, Neurobion Forte, living up to their motto of #HelpingTrueHero has recognized Sunil Mishra as one of the heroes for his selfless service to society.

The Logical Indian truly salutes Sunil Mishra and also commends Neurobion Forte for encouraging such people. We hope that Mishra’s story inspires many others.

Also published on Medium.