My Story: "My Driver Died In Accident, So I Am Driving The Car On His Behalf So That His Income Keeps Flowing"

While returning late from office yesterday, I had an encounter with one of the most inspiring men I have ever met.

Anandji (my Uber driver) : “Hi, how was your day?” (in superbly fluent English)

Me: (slightly stunned) : “I am good, thank you, Sir!”

Post a couple of office calls, I settle down for the long ride home.

Anandji :”So how long do you think this e-commerce bubble will last? ”

Me: (more stunned)” Dont know, Sir, I have my own issues to worry about than this.”

Me: “Sir, what’s your deal.. You don’t seem to be the average Uber driver.”

Anandji: “Ohh I am an IIT K graduate from 1986. I was working in the US and India for the past 30 years and I gave it all up to do my own entrepreneurial stuff. I now have 50 cars plying with Uber and I have a couple of strawberry farms in Mysore.”

Me: “Then why are you driving this car around.”

Anandji : “Oh, this car met with an accident a few days back and my Uber driver died. His family is too humble to take the money, so I figured the only way I can help is to drive the car on his behalf and let the income from Uber keep flowing. And I feel happy doing this.”

I don’t feel ashamed saying I cried a little.