Service.

An interesting thing happened yesterday. For some reason, I had to hire an auto. In the age of Uber and Ola, yesterday was an exception, as there were no cabs available.

I saw an auto standing by the road with a group of men standing and chit-chatting nearby.

I asked, "Is this auto yours?" The question was directed towards a young man in the group.

With a gentle smile, he replied, "Abhi tak to mera hi hai, sahab" (Yes, as of now, the auto is mine).

I found his reply funny. Even in the scorching heat of 42 degrees, he had kept a smile on his face and maintained his sense of humour and wit.

"Will you take me to Riddhi Siddhi?" I asked.

"Sure, sir, it will be 50 rupees," he said.

"OK, let's go," I said, and as I walked towards the auto, the driver went and opened the door for me.

Now, this was least expected of him! Such an act of chivalry and manners is not usually expected from auto drivers in India.

I was impressed by the customer service acumen this young lad had just demonstrated.

He could have easily not done it.

At the end of the ride, I gave him his due fare and, in addition, another fifty.

"Sir, I do not take tips," he replied, with a lot of self-respect in his tone.

"This is for the exceptional service and care you showed by the act of opening that door for me. Keep doing that—I appreciate the effort. Thank you!" I replied.

He accepted the amount with a smile.