Ah, the life of a Kerala rickshaw driver – what could be more fulfilling and rewarding? Waking up before dawn to navigate the bustling streets, fighting tooth and nail for a fare, and dealing with all manner of characters, from the mildly annoying to the downright insane. They embark on a journey filled with twists, turns, and more excitement than a Bollywood movie. It’s a dream come true.
Let’s start with the joy of finding a fare. After that, it’s like a game of cat and mouse, with drivers vying for the attention of potential passengers. Of course, you’re always competing against everyone else on the road, from other rickshaws to taxis, buses, and even the occasional horse and cart. They know this ride will take them on a wild journey through the streets of Kerala, filled with twists, turns, and unexpected obstacles. But, hey, it’s all part of the fun, right?
Once you’ve landed a fare, the real fun begins. It’s like a wild ride, careening through the narrow streets, dodging potholes and other vehicles, all while trying to make it to the destination in one piece. It’s like a hilarious game of chicken, with everyone trying to outdo each other in a race to the finish. But, of course, that’s assuming the passenger knows where they’re going. If they don’t, it’s your job to be their GPS, navigating them through the maze of roads and alleys that make up the city.Â
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And then there are the passengers themselves. Again, you never know what you’re going to get. Some are quiet and reserved; others are loud and talkative. Some are sweet and polite; others are rude and demanding. It’s like a box of chocolates; you never know what you will get.Â
But the real highlight of the day is dealing with traffic. It’s like an obstacle course, with cars, motorcycles, bikes, and even the occasional cow all vying for space on the roads. And don’t even get started on the other rickshaw drivers. It’s like a battle for supremacy, with everyone trying to edge each other out for the best position on the road, like a comedy of errors, as cars, motorcycles, and bikes all jostle for space on the roads, a scene from a cartoon, with everyone honking their horns and trying to outmanoeuvre each other. It’s a real laugh a minute.Â
At the end of the day, when the sun finally sets, and you’ve finally made it back to your starting point, you can sit back and reflect on the day’s adventures. From the exciting rides to the colourful passengers, it’s been a real rollercoaster. Who wouldn’t want to do it all over again tomorrow?
In all seriousness, the life of a Kerala rickshaw driver is challenging, filled with long hours and demanding work. But despite the difficulties, these drivers continue to provide a valuable service to the people of Kerala, navigating the streets with skill and determination. They are the unsung heroes of the road and deserve our respect and appreciation.
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