Mumbai auto, taxi drivers begin speaking Marathi as language mandate takes effect

Imam Shaikh (left), Salim Kureshi (above), and Ramdas Kanojia (below in white) say learning from real-life conversation with passengers is easier than learning in a classroom. Pics/Ritika Gondhalekar

Mumbai's auto rickshaw and taxi drivers began speaking more Marathi on Saturday as the language was made mandatory for them, with many drivers showing a positive attitude towards learning and using the language while interacting with passengers.

While several drivers are yet to speak Marathi fluently or confidently, and are yet to complete the mandatory certification course, many were seen making an effort to use basic Marathi phrases while communicating with commuters. For some, the process is still one of learning through everyday conversations.

"I can understand some Marathi, but speaking it fluently is still difficult for me. I am trying to use simple Marathi words with passengers so that I can gradually improve," said Imam Shaikh, who has been driving autos in Sion for over a decade.

Some, however, remain against the mandate. "I have been driving autos for the last 22 years. I earned enough to educate three children and provide them with food and shelter. All of this without speaking Marathi. After living in the city for almost 50 years, you obviously start understanding the language. And as long as you understand where your customer wants to go, that's enough," said Mangatram Singh, an auto driver from Borivli.

Another driver, Ramdas Kanojia from Thane, said passengers could play an important role in helping them learn. "If passengers also speak to us in Marathi, it will become easier for us to learn the language. We interact with hundreds of people every day, so regular conversations will definitely help. Real-life classroom is always more helpful than a school's enclosed classroom," he said.

"I may not speak perfect Marathi yet, but I am willing to learn. Even if I make mistakes, I will continue trying. We want passengers to correct us and help us learn," said Salim Kureshi, an auto driver from Bandra.