In a city where language barriers often cause confusion between locals and newcomers, a Bengaluru auto-rickshaw driver has come up with a unique solution. To help his passengers communicate more easily in Kannada, he has placed a leaflet inside his vehicle titled "Learn Kannada With Auto Kannadiga." This thoughtful initiative offers simple Kannada phrases translated into English, making it easier for non-Kannada speakers to interact with locals. 

The leaflet offers a range of useful phrases-from simple greetings to common questions. Passengers are therefore finally able to say "Hello sir" or "I am learning Kannada" with confidence and consequently navigate their route by requesting "Sir ride a bit faster" "Go slow" or "Take a right/left turn a little further".

Along with giving some words to figure out the fare, it also mentions a few useful words to have over the fare. One can ask, "How much?" or even question the driver as to whether he accepts payment through UPI or only through cash. More relevant ones would be to request a change and, more politely, "Do not cancel the booking, please.".

For those in a hurry, there are phrases like “Please wait, I’ll be there in two minutes,” and “I’m in a rush, please come quickly,” ensuring smoother communication in time-sensitive situations.

This initiative by Auto Kannadiga, a content creator, has garnered attention and praise on social media. One of the social media users said, “It's a nice way to learn...I mostly learn Kannada like this only...and Kannada is a very beautiful and respectful language.”

Manjeet Nalawade, an alumnus of IIM Bangalore, shared a picture on LinkedIn, appreciating the efforts of the driver. “As a non-Kannadiga, I totally love this approach! A thoughtful way to help both non-Kannadigas and Kannada auto drivers navigate the city!” He humorously noted that it's yet another reminder of how Bengaluru auto drivers address everyone as "Sir."

With this initiative, the auto-rickshaw driver is helping passengers navigate the city more effectively and creating a bridge between cultures, one Kannada phrase at a time.