Vir Das shares encounter with IIT Mumbai graduate and laid-off scientist now driving cabs in the US: 'Tasalli nahin hai'

The dream of studying abroad is often painted with pictures of success and opportunity, but the harsh realities of struggles, job hunts, and the skyrocketing cost of living are rarely discussed. Indian comedian Vir Das recently shared a revealing encounter, during a visit to California, with a “nice driver” who took him from the airport to his hotel. To his surprise, the driver turned out to be an IIT Mumbai graduate now working as a driver to make ends meet.

Vir Das recently shared a poignant story about an encounter with an Indian driver during his trip to San Jose, California.?

“The black lane driver picks me up from the San Jose baggage claim. Nice guy. Not a great driver. You can tell he’s uncomfortable behind a wheel. Or at least new behind it,” Vir wrote, describing the start of their ride.

The comedian, who often speaks to fellow Indians abroad in Hindi, struck up a conversation.?

“I try to speak to people I find abroad in Hindi, it’s like a little quick cure for homesickness for both of us,” he explained.?

Their chat soon turned to life in America, where the driver candidly admitted, “Tasalli nahin hai, you can never fully relax.”

The story took a surprising turn when the driver revealed he was an IIT Mumbai graduate with a PhD and a former scientist, now working as a driver after being laid off a year ago. “This explains the driving. He does this to make ends meet,” Vir shared.

As their journey ended, Vir shook the driver’s hand and wished him well. “All I can think is - I hope you get to use all of your amazing brain soon. I know firsthand it’s heartbreaking to feel like you are more than what you’re doing, and I hope you get to relax soon,” he reflected, capturing the bittersweet encounter with a touch of hope and empathy.

Each year, a significant number of Indians migrate to the United States for higher education and work opportunities.?

In the academic year 2022-23 alone, approximately 268,923 Indian students went to the U.S. for higher education, a 35% increase from the previous year. They now make up over 25% of the international student population in the U.S.?

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