In the bustling city of Mumbai, the iconic yellow autorickshaws zip through the streets, an integral part of daily life. For Mumbaikars, living without these black and yellow chariots is unimaginable. They may evoke mixed feelings, but they are an undeniable necessity. Among these autorickshaws, one stands out—a bright orange three-wheeler driven by a remarkable woman named Savita Opalkar.
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Breaking Barriers: Savita’s Unwavering Determination
Savita Opalkar, the lone female auto-rickshaw driver in Kanjur Marg, embarked on her journey in this male-dominated domain out of sheer determination. Her life had taken a challenging turn as she faced troubles at her job and dealt with her husband’s alcoholism. The burden of managing the household expenses fell squarely on her shoulders. She was determined not to let her children’s education suffer due to financial constraints. That’s when she decided to take the wheel of an auto-rickshaw.
Savita’s journey began with a male auto driver teaching her how to operate the vehicle. Without delay, she obtained the women’s license provided by the Mumbai Government. It was far from an easy path; her immediate community raised eyebrows, and those close to her challenged her decision. However, she learned to brush off the skepticism and keep moving forward.
A Support System That Mattered
When asked about her source of motivation and how she learned to drive, Savita credited a helpful friend who taught her the ropes and her unwavering daughter, her strongest pillar. Meanwhile, her daughter and mother-in-law placed a bet, with her mother-in-law doubting her abilities. It was a test of her determination, one that she passed with flying colors.
Savita’s journey was far from smooth, but she achieved some significant milestones. She managed to finance her children’s education, ensuring their safety and security. Today, she revels in her newfound independence and the ability to afford the things she desires. She proudly states, “When people see me, they want to ride with me, and that makes me happy.”
A Bright Future Beckons
It has been two years since Savita began driving her auto-rickshaw with pride, earning enough to support her family and allowing her children to continue their education. Savita is content with the life she has chosen for herself. When asked about her future plans, she simply says, “I want to learn to drive the new bus now.”
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Savita Opalkar’s journey is a testament to the resilience and determination of women in the face of adversity. Her story is not just about driving an auto-rickshaw; it’s about breaking barriers and inspiring change in the vibrant streets of Mumbai.
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