How many auto-rickshaws are there in Tiruvannamalai? After a moment’s reflection, a senior owner-driver.  said, “Five thousand.” That sounds about right.

While the vehicular load has boomed, the narrow streets have not expanded in like measure. Trucks, buses, cars, autos and two-wheelers have all made traffic jams a common occurrence, with no space left over for pedestrians who must fend for themselves, in order to preserve life and limb.

In the midst of this mayhem, it was electrifying to spot a speeding auto with Bhagavan’s primary teaching boldly emblazoned on its rear, where normally we are assaulted by mundane advertisements. It was enlivened by an elegant ‘Arunachala’ and ‘Om’ rendered in a fluent, freehand style.

“Who am I?”

Call it the world’s first ‘Advaita Vedanta Autorickshaw’ careening around Maharshi’s adopted hometown! —

Photo by: Dev Gogoi