In a creative bid to help passengers bridge the language barrier in Bengaluru, an auto-rickshaw driver has introduced an innovative solution for non-Kannada speakers. The driver, with the help of a leaflet titled “Learn Kannada With Auto Kannadiga”, aims to assist his passengers in communicating basic phrases in Kannada. This thoughtful initiative has garnered significant appreciation online for promoting language learning in a practical and accessible manner.
Everyday Kannada Phrases for a Seamless Ride
The leaflet inside the auto-rickshaw offers non-Kannada speakers a quick guide to essential Kannada phrases, translated into English. Passengers can learn greetings such as “Hello sir” and “I am learning Kannada.” For navigating through the city, the leaflet includes useful phrases like “Ride a bit faster,” “Go slow,” or “Take a right/left turn.”
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To assist with fare-related conversations, the leaflet provides translations for phrases like “How much?” and “Do you accept UPI or only cash?” Additionally, passengers can ask whether the driver has change for a certain amount or request that the booking not be canceled. More phrases include practical requests like, “Please wait, I’ll be there in two minutes” and “I’m in a hurry, please come quickly.”
Online Support for the Initiative
The initiative, designed by content creator Auto Kannadiga, has drawn praise online. Many users have lauded the driver’s efforts for providing a polite and engaging way to learn Kannada. One user commented on X, formerly Twitter, “Good way to politely ask people to learn a new language. Many will welcome this and will have a curious approach towards it.”
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A non-native Kannada speaker from Uttar Pradesh mentioned, “I mostly learn Kannada like this only… and Kannada is a very beautiful and respectful language.” Another user praised it as a “faster, cheaper way to learn Kannada.”
A Unique Bengaluru Experience
IIM Bangalore alumnus Manjeet Nalawade shared a picture of the leaflet on LinkedIn, expressing his admiration for the thoughtful initiative. “As a non-Kannadiga, I totally love this approach! A thoughtful way to help both non-Kannadigas and Kannada auto drivers navigate the city!” Nalawade added a light-hearted comment, “This is yet another reminder of how Bangalore auto drivers are so used to addressing everyone as ‘Sir’ :).”
This initiative highlights the city’s unique and creative ways to foster community and promote language learning, making daily interactions smoother for residents and visitors alike.