When humanity took the wheel: Kolkata cab driver’s kindness shines through

A ride in a cab at night in the city of Kolkata is making the rounds on the internet, although it is not for any reason such as drama or scandal, but for the reason that act is considered to be few and far between in the contemporary era.

In a heartwarming moment that has resonated across social media, a video from Kolkata showing a cab driver helping a visibly intoxicated woman reach her home safely has gone viral- earning widespread praise for his patience, professionalism and Compassion. The dashcam footage, shared widely on platforms like X and Instagram, captures the late-night ride in an app-based taxi where the young woman repeatedly pleads with the driver to make sure she gets home safely, clearly worried about her own state and her family’s concern. Throughout the journey, the driver remains calm, reassuring her with a gentle tone and clear communication.

In the footage, the woman can be heard saying, “Uncle, can you get me home sofe please? I am very drunk,” to which the driver calmly responds, “I am here. I will take you to your home safe.” As she continues to worry aloud, he gently reassures her again, saying, “I know you’re drunk beta. Please keep quite, and I will take you to your home.” She replies, “I will try to keep quiet,” prompting a little laugh from the driver as he repeats, “I will take you home.”

At one point, the woman- slurring her speech- calls her mother and expresses fear over her reaction to her intoxicated state. The driver kindly takes the phone to speak directly with her mother, shared his live location, and reassured her that her daughter would be brought home without any trouble. In a moment that has now become the focal point of the clip, the driver jokingly calls the woman a “spoiled brat,” propmting laughter and easing the tension in the cab.

Such light-heartedness, paired with his steady conduct, helped keep the situation under control. As the journey continues, the woman thanks him for his care. The driver brushes it off modestly, saying, “It is my duty, no need to thank me. It’s my job. I take money for this.” When the trip concludes, the driver sees the woman safely to her doorstep- an ordinary act of service that many on social meadia are celebrating as extraordinary. Netizens have responded with admiration, praising the driver as a”perfect gentleman” and a remainder of basic kindness in everyday life.

However, some observers have also noted that such professional and caring behaviour should be the minimum expected of people in public service roles- not something exceptional to be celebrated. One user commented, “The education and culture of the driver bhai are highly impressive and worth remembering.” Another wrote, “These types of men are really a gem, and it’s really good that you have recorded and posted it to inspire others. Great man.”

As the viral clip continues to circulate, it has sparked conversations online about passenger safety, the responsibilities of drivers, and the impact small acts of humanity can have in fostering trust on streets often marred by safety concerns.