Vir Das shares encounter with IIT Bombay graduate working as driver in US: 'There's a sadness to the smile'

Vir Das's post went viral and struck a chord with many online.

Comedian and actor Vir Das recently shared a poignant story on Instagram about meeting an Indian scientist, now working as a chauffeur in the United States. The post, which has gained significant attention on social media, highlights the struggles of a highly qualified professional navigating a career setback abroad.

Das recounted his interaction with the driver who picked him up from San Jose airport during his international "Mind Fool" tour. Observing the driver’s discomfort behind the wheel, Das initiated a conversation in Hindi. This, he noted, was a shared remedy for homesickness.

During their chat, the driver revealed the challenges of life in a foreign country. He remarked, “Tasalli nahin hai, you can never fully relax.” He then disclosed that he was a PhD holder and a graduate of IIT Bombay, previously employed as a scientist. However, he had been laid off a year earlier and had taken up driving to make ends meet.

Das expressed his thoughts about the encounter, saying, “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 firsthand it’s heartbreaking to feel like you are more than what you’re doing, and I hope you get to relax soon.”

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A post shared by Vir Das (@virdas)

The post struck a chord with many online. Commenters shared their interpretations and personal reflections.

One user remarked on Das’s evocative writing, saying, “‘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.”

Another commenter, who identified with the driver’s qualifications, noted, “Not sure if he meant Tasalli as in relaxed or as in certainty. Because with the same qualifications as him, let me tell you, there is usually none.”

Others praised Das for his ability to connect emotionally with his audience. A comment read, “You have a way of getting to people. Reaching them. Which is what makes you, YOU.”