Vir Das' Emotional Encounter With IIT Graduate Turned Driver In US Leaves Internet In Tears

Indian comedian and actor Vir Das recently shared a moving anecdote on Instagram about a chance meeting with an Indian driver in San Jose, California. The interaction, filled with empathy and warmth, has resonated with many online.During his trip, Das was picked up by a driver who seemed visibly uneasy behind the wheel. The comedian struck up a conversation in Hindi, hoping to put the man at ease. What followed was a revelation about the driver’s life. The man, an IIT Mumbai alumnus with a PhD, had once worked as a scientist. However, after being laid off a year ago, he had taken up driving to make ends meet in the US.Describing the encounter, Vir Das wrote, “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. He’s Indian. We start talking. I try to speak to people I find abroad in Hindi, it’s like a little quick cure for homesickness for both of us.”At the end of the ride, Das offered the driver words of encouragement and a handshake. Reflecting on the moment, he shared, “We’re friends now, who will never see each other ever again. We’re at drop-off now. I shake his hand and say, ‘Good luck with everything.’ All I can think is—I hope you get to use all of your amazing brain soon. I know first-hand it’s heartbreaking to feel like you are more than what you’re doing, and I hope you get to relax soon. Tasalli.”

The heartfelt Instagram post struck a chord with netizens, sparking widespread empathy. Many commenters shared their own stories of challenges and perseverance, acknowledging the weight of responsibilities and the struggle for stability, even among highly accomplished individuals.One user remarked on the poignant nature of Das’ words, writing, ”‘We’re friends now, who will never see each other ever again.’ This phrase shows that the same observational nerve which perceives and harnesses humour is also the one that notices humanity.”A user said, "So heartwarming and heart-breaking to have read this." A fourth added, "Awww man! Praying for tasalli for that man and everyone."Another person commented, "You have a way of getting to people. Reaching them. Which is what makes you, YOU."