From WiFi to Libraries: 5 Indian autos that went viral for innovation and kindness in the past
uto rickshaws are usually just a way to get from one place to another– fast, cheap, and nothing fancy. But in some Indian cities, a few auto drivers are turning that idea on its head.
From creating mini libraries to offering free rides for a cause, these drivers are adding heart, creativity, and even innovation to their three-wheelers.
Here's a look at five inspiring stories where ordinary auto rides became anything but routine– solving everyday problems, spreading kindness, or simply making someone's day a little brighter.
A Mumbai auto driver who doesn't drive– but had a unique hustle
Outside the US Consulate in Mumbai, visitors aren't allowed to carry bags inside, and there are no locker facilities nearby.
That's where an autorickshaw driver stepped in with an unusual solution.
As shared in a viral LinkedIn post by Rahul Rupani, the driver offered to hold his bag for ₹1,000, claiming it was part of his daily routine. Rupani estimated the driver handled 20–30 bags a day, potentially earning up to ₹8 lakh a month. The auto acted as a collection point, with bags later stored securely, reportedly in coordination with a local police officer.
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The post drew massive attention online, with many praising the driver's hustle. While the service no longer operates, it highlighted how everyday gaps in public systems often lead to creative, if unofficial, solutions.
Bengaluru auto with a flat-style window draws attention
In 2024, a Bengaluru auto sparked a wave of reactions online for one unusual feature– a sliding UPVC window, the kind typically seen in residential buildings. The auto was spotted by social media user Tanvi Gaikwad, who posted a photo on August 29 with the caption: 'This auto has a window whattt.'
Her post quickly gained traction, gathering over five lakh views and more than 4,000 likes. While one side of the rickshaw remained open for boarding, the other had a closed panel with glass windows– a setup that stood out. Many users on X referred to it as a 'business class auto' or 'Rickshaw Pro Ultra,' with some even joking it looked like a '1BHK in Mumbai.'
In Delhi, an auto becomes a cool ride– literally
In 2022, to cope with Delhi's extreme heat, 48-year-old auto driver Mahendra Kumar added a rooftop garden to his rickshaw.
Lush with over 20 varieties of plants, including vegetables and flowers, the greenery helps cool the vehicle naturally. Kumar told AFP, 'Around two years ago, I had this idea during the peak of the summer season. I thought if I could grow some plants on the roof, it would keep my auto cool and give relief from the heat to my passengers.
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He also fitted the auto with small coolers and fans. 'It is now like a natural AC,' he said, adding that many passengers are so pleased they offer him an extra ₹10–20.
The setup has turned his vehicle into a local attraction, with people often stopping to take photos of what many call a 'moving garden.'
Chennai's 'auto anna' offers more than just a ride
By 2021, Chennai's Anna Durai– known to many as 'Auto Anna' – had already transformed his rickshaw into a service-on-wheels. At 32, he ran his vehicle like a mini customer lounge, equipped with a mini-fridge, free WiFi, an iPad, and even a card payment machine.
His story was widely shared in July 2021 by Humans of Bombay, with a video that went viral and received over 1.3 million views.
Once an aspiring businessman who couldn't complete formal education, Anna chose to build something unique on wheels.
The rickshaw also features a snack bar, magazines, charging ports, hand sanitizer, and masks. Anna has delivered multiple TEDx talks, and even has his own website and mobile app. His motto: 'Customers are God,' a belief he brings to life in every ride.
Mysuru auto surprises passenger with a mini-library
Recently, in Mysuru, a simple auto ride turned into something memorable for artist Lisiya, who discovered that the rickshaw she was riding had a full-fledged mini-library inside.
She shared a video of the experience on Instagram, which has now crossed three million views.
Books were neatly placed inside the vehicle, along with bookmarks that carried thoughtful messages. Her post included a text overlay that read: 'Look what I found on my Uber ride. What a wonderful thought.'
The concept is the work of Daniel Mardona, who has created a small reading corner inside his auto, giving daily commuters a quiet space to pause and engage with books while on the move.
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