Bengaluru: While most of Bengaluru is just beginning to wake up, a BMTC bus driver is already making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Every morning, before starting his regular route from Uttarahalli to Majestic, Krishnamurthy H.O. ensures that around 10 hungry people receive a warm breakfast.
Attached to BMTC Depot-33, Krishnamurthy begins his duty at 6.15 am, driving bus KA-53-F-0228. Alongside his responsibility of transporting passengers, he carries neatly packed breakfast packets near his driver’s seat, distributing them to homeless people, elderly destitute persons and others in need along his route.
A simple act inspired by the pandemic
Krishnamurthy said the initiative began during the Covid-19 pandemic after he witnessed the hardships faced by families who had lost their livelihoods.
He recalled contributing to the family of an auto-rickshaw driver after seeing their plight on television, which inspired him to continue helping people within his financial means.
Every morning, he collects freshly prepared food packets from Sai Tiffins before beginning his journey. By the time the bus reaches Majestic around 7.30 am, almost every packet has been distributed.
Spending from his own salary
The initiative costs Krishnamurthy around ₹7,000 to ₹8,000 every month, which he pays from his salary.
He said many homeless people now recognise his bus and wait for him at traffic junctions and bus stops, especially after Chamarajpet.
His compassion extends beyond breakfast distribution. Every month, he provides groceries to an elderly woman recovering from a stroke and contributes to a fund created by BMTC employees to help colleagues facing medical emergencies. Recently, the group raised ₹1.5 lakh for the treatment of an employee’s child diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Compassion rooted in family values
Originally from Kadur in Chikkamagaluru district, Krishnamurthy credits his farming family and his father’s generosity for inspiring his compassion.
“I grew up watching my father help others with whatever little he had. I hope my son carries forward the same spirit,” he said.
Krishnamurthy’s selfless service came to public attention after a regular passenger shared his story on social media. The BMTC driver, who has also been recognised by the corporation for maintaining his bus well, says he never sought publicity—only the satisfaction of ensuring that a few people do not go hungry.