The auto driver who became a lifeline | Fusion - WeRIndia

Heroism is often associated with power and wealth, but sometimes, it is found in the simple act of helping others.

In Yellandu, Mohammed Muzaheed, a 45-year-old auto driver disabled by polio, proves that true heroism lies in selfless service.

For nearly two decades, he has transported pregnant women and persons with disabilities (PwDs) free of charge.

Muzaheed’s journey began in poverty and hardship. Polio left his right leg paralyzed, but it didn’t break his spirit. To support his family, he borrowed money to buy an auto, paying ₹7,000 in monthly instalments.

However, a life-changing moment came when his auto broke down in a forest. As drivers passed without helping, he vowed to become the help he never received.

Years ago, an incident changed his perspective on life. While returning from Mukundapuram, his vehicle broke down in the middle of a forest. He pleaded for help, but passing drivers ignored his distress.

That night, as he sat helpless and alone, he resolved to become the kind of person who would never turn away from someone in need. Since then, his auto has become a source of hope for many.

He responds to calls at odd hours, driving through difficult roads to ensure that those in distress reach their destination safely.

On an average day, he transports around five to six passengers free of cost. He believes that although he has his own struggles, he does not want others to suffer.

His commitment to service extends beyond transportation. Twice a month, he sets aside half of his daily earnings of ₹500 to cook and serve meals to thirty struggling families.

The remaining amount is used to support his wife, Faimedha, and their two children, Muzammil and Farhana. His wife shares that despite their financial difficulties, helping others brings them a sense of fulfilment.

The weight of financial burdens has often been overwhelming. At his lowest points, Muzaheed attempted to end his life twice, but his family reminded him of his purpose.

Their support encouraged him to continue his mission. Along with three friends, he now fills potholes on roads, believing that every repaired path is a step toward preventing hardships for others.

He expresses his desire to continue this work as long as he can. From someone who once felt invisible, he has become a silent force of change, impacting lives with every ride he offers, every meal he serves, and every road he helps to mend.

Image Credit: Rathfelder, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Image Reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Indian_Tuk-tuk.jpg