Bengaluru: A routine auto ride turned into a viral story after engineer Akash Anandani discovered that his Bengaluru auto driver claimed to own two houses worth Rs 4-5 crore, earning Rs 2-3 lakh per month in rental income, along with stakes in an AI startup.

The encounter took place on October 4, when Anandani noticed the driver’s Apple Watch and AirPods and struck up a conversation. The driver reportedly drives only on weekends, treating it as his first job.

Social media reaction

Anandani shared the story on X (formerly Twitter), which quickly gained 1,300 likes and 58,000 views. Netizens expressed a mix of awe, disbelief, and amusement.

Some commented, “This is why Bangalore is the startup capital—even auto drivers are investors!” Others speculated that the story sounded like a Bollywood rags-to-riches tale, while a few highlighted that driving an auto could be a way to meet potential investment opportunities.

Anandani confirmed that his interaction with the driver was genuine, adding credibility to the seemingly unusual revelation.