Auto Detecting a city's culture

Putting a finger on the pulse of the city has been the favourite past time of many. Some have made even a day career out of it. Thinkers and others alike have taken varied and interesting paths to sum up a city's culture. From the 'eating out' approach to the 'bus / local train' approach to more esoteric approaches that I really cant seem to recollect. Personally I believe that its an injustice to the city describe its culture in one or a few words. Consider this.

Mumbai is fast.
Oh yeah? Then probably you missed out on the lazy stretches of Dadar's Parsi Colony.

Mumbai is rich.
Heard about Dharavi?

There is 'no life' in Mumbai.
Ask those who have stayed in all metros.

There is 'life' in Mumbai.
Try taking a poll on this.

Since I feel suicidal today I too wish to express my simple thoughts on the subject. I think that 30 minutes in an auto-rickshaw is enough to give you the pulse of the city. After all the autowalas still remain a city's ubiquitous agents touching practically everyone. Lets start with, ofcourse, Mumbai.

Rarely would an autowala refuse where you want to go...And rarely would he not express his thoughts on the current local topics. Its Mumbai and everyone has a view and when it comes to business there are people who swear by it - imaandari se boss.

Up North in Delhi you have been told by everyone - ALWAYS take a prepaid! In reality you see that the prepaid fares are more than what the autowalas hounding you at the stands quote. he real fun starts when you get in an auto they drop you at the exact point from which GK I starts (Everyone is an expert in jurisdiction limits you see). Never mind that your place is lmost 1.5 kms away. But sorry boss! GKI bola na - yahi hain GKI.

Bangalore is the best I have experienced so far and that's because, people tell me, that I haven't been to Chennai! First of all the autowalas will simply refuse to go where you want to. Either its too near or too far for them. You finally come across a god send autowala only o find that the fare meter is running faster than the auto. And if you make the blunder of not paying him the exact fare - don't wait to collect the change. Because most of them feel that its a crime to return change. You are after all "...software wala saar". Right Fred.

So next time you get in an auto-rickshaw pay some attention inside the auto while gazing at the city outside. You will probably be able to get to know the city better.