Rickshaw Driver’s Child Secures IIT Admission, but Luxury Hotel Denies Entry for Auto; Thyrocare Founder Questions Class Divide
Rickshaw Driver's Child Secures IIT Admission, but Luxury Hotel Denies Entry for Auto; Thyrocare Founder Questions Class Divide.
An inspiring yet thought-provoking story shared by Dr. A. Velumani, the founder of Thyrocare, has ignited discussions on social media regarding social class divisions in India. Dr. Velumani recently posted on X (formerly Twitter) about his encounter with an auto-rickshaw driver whose son is enrolled at IIT Hyderabad. What started as an uplifting dialogue about determination and hard work took a troubling turn when a luxury hotel in Mumbai denied entry to the rickshaw.
During a ride from Mumbai’s T2 terminal, Dr. Velumani recounted his conversation with the rickshaw driver, who has been working for more than 30 years and drives between 12 to 14 hours daily to pay for his son’s education at IIT.
“Me: What is your son doing?” Dr. Velumani inquired.
“He: IIT Hyderabad, 3rd year,” replied the driver.
“Me: How many hours do you drive daily?”
“He: 12 to 14 hours a day.”
“Me: Why so long?”
“He: Son’s fees too high.”
This conversation quickly gained popularity online, with many people praising the father’s unwavering commitment. However, the focus soon shifted to an incident at a luxury hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), where the rickshaw was denied entry.
Came for an event in Mumbai.
— Dr. A. Velumani.PhD. (@velumania) February 7, 2025
T2 terminal. Tried a rickshaw this time. Just for fun. Cool conversation.
Me: how many years driving.
He: > 30 yrs.
Me : Family?
He: wife and Son.
Me: What is son doing ?
He: IIT Hyderabad, 3rd year.
Me: how many hrs you drive daily?
He: 12 to… pic.twitter.com/qaQHArD8v8
When Dr. Velumani reached the hotel, security reportedly prevented the auto-rickshaw from entering and asked him to walk the rest of the way, citing “hotel rules.” He described the situation as “strange,” reflecting on the ongoing class divide that exists in urban India.
“Finally, that star hotel in BKC did not allow the rickshaw in. Security rudely said to the driver, ‘rules of hotel.’ Made me get down and walk in. What a strange rule?” he posted on X.
The reactions on social media to Dr. Velumani’s post have been quite intense, with many users condemning the discriminatory nature of such hotel rules. One user pointed out, “Sir, you should name & shame the hotel. It seems like untouchability! Next, they may not allow low-end cars in as they ruin the ambience!!” Another user shared their thoughts, stating, “Hard work builds futures, but class barriers still stand tall. Why should a hotel decide who belongs?”
Many individuals chimed in with their own experiences, revealing that this issue isn’t isolated. One user recounted how their auto was stopped at a luxury hotel in Jaipur, forcing them to call the lobby manager just to get in.
The rickshaw driver’s story underscores the sacrifices that working-class parents make for their children’s futures, while the hotel’s actions highlight the social barriers that persist despite advancements in the economy.
While others wondered if Dr. Velumani offered any financial help. It’s a complex situation that raises important questions about class and access in society.
Some users even questioned why the driver worked such long hours when educational loans are available for IIT students.
This isn’t the first time Dr. Velumani has ignited conversations around class and frugality. In another post, he stood by his choice of Ola and Uber instead of luxury cars, saying, “Troll me as much as you enjoy. But I will continue to mentor for frugality.” He frequently highlights the value of financial discipline and simple living, reflecting on his own modest beginnings.
Many people resonate with his message, viewing it as a call to prioritize values over material possessions. It’s interesting how his perspective challenges societal norms and encourages others to rethink their views on wealth and success.
About Dr. A. Velumani
Dr. A. Velumani, originally from Coimbatore, founded Thyrocare Technologies Ltd., a chain of diagnostic and preventive care laboratories located in Navi Mumbai. The company became the largest laboratory for thyroid testing, extending its services to India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Middle East. Over a span of 25 years, Thyrocare consistently maintained a profit margin of 40% and achieved a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25%. In 2021, after successfully turning the company into a unicorn, Velumani sold his 66% stake to PharmEasy for Rs 4,546 crore.
