Amisha Karmarkar | 23rd November 2025
In the bustling streets of Mumbai, where the sounds of honking horns and chattering crowds never cease, a determined woman named Mrs. Shobha Chaudhary navigates the city’s roads with skill and confidence. As one of the few women auto drivers in Ghatkopar, Shobha has carved out a niche for herself in a male-dominated profession, and her story is an inspiration to many.
Shobha, 45 years old, has been driving an auto rickshaw for seven years, braving the city’s traffic and unpredictable weather. She lives in Bhatwadi, Ghatkopar, and her day begins in the morning at home. After that afternoon, starts her work which lasts till 10 pm. With a strong will and a desire to be independent, Shobha took up this profession, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for other women to follow in her footsteps.
Shobha’s journey as an auto driver began when she applied for a permit through the Sasan. After a wait of one and a half years, she finally received her auto rickshaw. “It wasn’t easy,” she recalls. “But I didn’t give up. I knew I had to do this for myself and my family.”
Growing up in Mumbai, Shobha was always determined to be self-sufficient. She completed her education from Marathi Vidhalaya and later attended SNDT College. In 2003, she got married and continued to pursue her goals. When she decided to become an auto driver, her family was supportive.
With her auto rickshaw, Shobha travels across the city, from Alpha Metro Station to Ghatkopar Station, and sometimes even ventures further to Vasai and Panvel. She charges fares based on the distance, ensuring she gets a fair amount for her trips. While the cost of CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) has increased over the years, Shobha has adapted, making sure she earns enough to support herself and her family.
Recently, Shobha faced a challenge when she had to wait in line for two hours to refill her CNG cylinder. “It’s not just about me,” she says. “Many auto drivers face the same issue. We need better policies and support from the government to make our lives easier.”
Despite the challenges, Shobha’s passengers appreciate her determination and skill. “Many passengers praise me for being a woman auto driver,” she says with a smile. “They encourage me to continue doing what I’m doing.”
Shobha is not alone in her endeavor. There are around 15-20 women auto drivers in Ghatkopar, and their numbers are growing. “It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it,” she says. “I’m proud to be one of them.”
As Shobha navigates the busy streets of Mumbai, she knows that she has earned the respect of her passengers and peers. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. “I want to continue driving my auto rickshaw for as long as I can,” she says. “It’s my livelihood, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work independently.”
Shobha’s journey is an inspiration to many women who aspire to break free from traditional roles and pursue their passions. As she drives through the city, she knows that she is not just a woman auto driver but a symbol of empowerment and resilience.
In a city that never sleeps, Shobha Chaudhary’s auto rickshaw is a familiar sight, a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream big. As she continues to drive, she knows that she has paved the way for others to follow, and that’s the greatest reward of all.
Shobha’s story highlights the challenges faced by women in male-dominated professions and the importance of support and encouragement. Her determination and resilience serve as a role model for women who aspire to break free from traditional roles and pursue their passions.
As the city continues to evolve, Shobha’s story will remain an inspiration to many, a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Her auto rickshaw may be just a mode of transportation for some, but for Shobha, it’s a symbol of independence, empowerment, and a better life.
Shobha’s daily life is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. She wakes up early in the morning, does house work as she is the home maker, gets ready, and heads out to her auto rickshaw, which is parked in a designated area near her home. She checks the vehicle, ensures it’s in good condition, and then sets off to pick up passengers.
Throughout the day, Shobha encounters various people, from office-goers to students, and even tourists. She is known for her friendly nature and her ability to navigate the city’s congested roads with ease. Many of her passengers have become regulars, and they appreciate her reliability and honesty.
Despite the long hours and physical demands of the job, Shobha enjoys her work. She finds joy in the freedom that he gets to meet new people every day and see different parts of the city. “I love the freedom that comes with driving an auto,” she says. “I get to be on the road, meet new people, and earn a living at the same time.”
However, Shobha’s job is not without its challenges. She has to deal with difficult passengers, navigate through congested roads, and contend with the physical demands of driving an auto rickshaw for long hours. Despite these challenges, Shobha remains undeterred and continues to work hard to support herself and her family.
As Shobha looks back on her journey, she feels a sense of pride and accomplishment. She has proven to herself and others that she is capable of succeeding in a male-dominated profession. “I want to inspire other women to take up this profession,” she says. “It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”
Shobha’s story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. Her journey as an auto driver is a reminder that with the right mindset and support, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. As she continues to drive her auto rickshaw through the bustling streets of Mumbai, Shobha knows that she has made a difference, and that’s all that matters.
In the end, Shobha’s story is not just about driving an auto rickshaw; it’s about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and paving the way for others to follow. As she drives off into the sunset, her auto rickshaw loaded with passengers, she knows that she has paved the way for others to follow, and that’s the greatest reward of all. With her determination and resilience, Shobha will continue to drive forward, inspiring others with her story of empowerment and independence.
Amisha Karmakar is a media researcher and writer passionate about documenting stories of resilience, empowerment, and social change. Her work often highlights women’s voices in grassroots industries and explores how local communities shape India’s socio-economic fabric.
