Bantwal: In an age when mobile phones dominate people’s attention, an auto-rickshaw driver from Bantwal in Dakshina Kannada district is finding an innovative way to bring people closer to books. Sushan, a resident of Ajjibettu in BC Road, has transformed his auto-rickshaw into a mini library, offering passengers books, drinking water, mobile charging facilities and first-aid assistance.
Unlike conventional auto-rickshaws that focus solely on transporting passengers, Sushan’s vehicle offers several thoughtful amenities designed to make journeys more comfortable and meaningful. Passengers can pick up a book to read, charge their phones when required or access drinking water during their ride.
His initiative aims to encourage people to rediscover reading, particularly at a time when many spend their spare moments scrolling through mobile phones, including while waiting at traffic signals or getting caught in traffic.
A mini library on three wheels
The most distinctive feature of Sushan’s auto-rickshaw is the small wooden rack installed behind the driver’s seat. The rack holds a collection of storybooks, novels, newspapers and inspirational books, allowing passengers to choose something that interests them.
The idea is to make reading accessible even during short journeys. Instead of spending the entire ride looking at a mobile screen, passengers can use the time to read a few pages of a book or browse through a newspaper.
The collection caters to different interests, giving passengers an opportunity to explore stories, gain knowledge and find inspiration while travelling around Bantwal.
Sushan’s initiative reflects a simple idea: reading need not be limited to homes, libraries or dedicated reading rooms. Even a short journey can become an opportunity to develop a reading habit when books are readily available.
More than books: Facilities for passengers
Sushan has equipped his auto-rickshaw with several additional facilities to improve passenger convenience.
A mobile charging facility allows passengers to charge their phones during the journey, while drinking water is available for those who need it. A first-aid box has also been provided to offer basic assistance in emergencies.
The vehicle carries emergency helpline numbers for the police, fire service and hospitals, helping passengers access important contact information when required.
Small plants placed on both sides of the auto-rickshaw add another distinctive feature. Besides enhancing the vehicle’s appearance, the plants convey a message of environmental awareness and encourage people to appreciate greenery.
Together, these facilities make the auto-rickshaw more than a means of transport. They reflect Sushan’s effort to combine passenger comfort, public awareness and a love for reading in a practical, everyday setting.
Chocolates and toffees for young passengers
Sushan has also made a special provision for children travelling in his auto-rickshaw. A jar containing chocolates and toffees is kept for young passengers, adding a thoughtful touch to their journey.
The gesture makes the vehicle welcoming for children while complementing the collection of books available for passengers.
Such small details distinguish Sushan’s initiative from the usual passenger services offered by auto-rickshaws. His approach focuses not only on the journey itself but also on creating a pleasant experience for the people who use his vehicle.
A childhood love for reading inspires the initiative
Sushan’s interest in books dates back to his childhood. His personal enthusiasm for reading appears to have influenced his decision to introduce a library within his auto-rickshaw.
Apart from driving an auto-rickshaw, he has experience in the Kannada film industry. He has worked as an assistant art director on a few films, giving him exposure to the creative world of cinema.
His varied interests are reflected in the initiative, which brings together his appreciation for books and his desire to offer something different to passengers.
By making books available in a public space that people use every day, Sushan has found a way to share his interest in reading beyond his personal life.
Encouraging reading in the mobile-phone era
The growing use of smartphones has changed how people spend their free time. Reading books and newspapers has increasingly competed with social media, online videos and other digital content for people’s attention.
Sushan’s initiative offers a simple alternative by placing physical books within easy reach of passengers. Those travelling short distances can read a few pages, while people on longer journeys have more time to explore the available collection.
The initiative also demonstrates how individuals can encourage positive habits through small changes in their everyday work. Rather than relying on formal campaigns, Sushan has incorporated his message directly into a service that people regularly use.
His mini library has been attracting attention for its unusual combination of reading materials, passenger amenities and environmental awareness.
In Bantwal, Sushan’s auto-rickshaw stands as an example of how an ordinary vehicle can be turned into an opportunity to promote reading and thoughtful public service. His effort sends a message that even small initiatives can make everyday experiences more meaningful.