Bengaluru: Amid the ongoing discussions surrounding language in Bengaluru, a 31-year-old autorickshaw driver is taking innovative steps to bridge the gap between Kannada speakers and non-Kannadigas. Ajmal Sultan, affectionately known as Azzu Sultan, has created a unique initiative that allows his passengers to learn basic Kannada phrases during their rides. Notably, apart from an auto rickshaw driver Azzu is also a social media influencer with over 1 lakh followers on Instagram.
Recognising the language challenges faced by many of his fellow drivers and passengers, Azzu developed a leaflet titled “Learn Kannada With Auto Kannadiga.” This educational resource, which he keeps in his autorickshaw, features essential words and phrases aimed at facilitating communication. Originally hailing from Ilkal in the Bagalkot district, Azzu has been navigating the bustling streets of Bengaluru since 2012.
very handy pic.twitter.com/RqC6lTpwuq
— Vatsalya (@vatsalyatandon) October 21, 2024
Compilation of the most commonly used words.., distributed to over 500 drivers
“Many non-Kannadigas don’t bother to learn Kannada. When I spoke to some passengers, they admitted they struggled with even the most basic words,” Azzu noted. In response to this need, he compiled a list of key terms that would enhance interactions between drivers and their passengers.
“Most of my customers come from the Whitefield area and IT parks. I asked them about the words they needed most, translated them into Kannada, and displayed the list in my auto. The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” he shared. His efforts have garnered attention, leading to the distribution of these educational cards in over 500 autorickshaws across the city through collaboration with local autorickshaw associations.
Fluency in 6 different languages
Fluency in multiple languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil, Marathi, Telugu, and Urdu, complements Azzu’s ability to communicate effectively in Kannada, helping him navigate language barriers with ease.
In addition to his driving duties, Azzu has cultivated a significant presence on social media. With over 100,000 followers on Instagram under the handle @aut0kannadiga0779, he was inspired to start sharing content after discovering the work of Rajesh Rawani, a truck driver and vlogger highlighted by Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra and Mahindra.
