Dasara brings tongas back

Different modes of transport have evolved over the periods for man to travel from one place to another. From the ancient chariots, horses and elephants, the modes of transport have been varied.

Similarly, Mysore had its own unique vehicle to commute within the city, when there were no fuel-driven vehicles and city buses were unheard of. They were the horse-driven cabs, known as 'tonga'.

If Mysore had 'tongas', Bangalore boasted of 'jatakas'. The difference between the two horse-driven vehicles was that the 'tongas' were more open and spacious. A whole family of 5-6 members could sit in it comfortably, breathing fresh air and having a look around, while the cab driver drove the vehicle.

The 'jatakas' of Bangalore were more closed. Those inside could hardly see anything of the outside. The passengers were huddled in and could travel almost incognito.

Both 'tongas' and 'jatakas' perhaps evolved as modes of transport during the Muslim rulers' days. The 'jatakas' were an ideal transport vehicles more so for Muslim women. At every corner of the city, there used to be a 'jataka or tonga stand,' none to be found now.

The driver was popular as 'jataka sabi', an affectionate expression, and liked by all communities, though most of them were Muslims. They were at hand to serve any one, any time.

In a way, these 'tongas' were a unifying force of different communities in Mysore. Emulating them, members from other communities too had taken to 'tonga' driving.

The arrival of the city buses around 50s and cars, and now any number of two-wheelers, had its impact on the traditional 'tongas' and 'jatakas'. They became less attractive and more time-consuming. For the cab driver, its maintenance turned costly. 'Tongas' became rare.

Only around 50-odd rickety 'tongas' with bony horses are left in Mysore now, while the 'jatakas' in Bangalore have almost disappeared. 'Tongas' now serve as goods-carriers. Unable to get into any other profession, the poor cab owners are continuing with their ramshackle cabs.

But, the Dasara has given them a new ray of hope. The old transport vehicle is back on roads, with a better look, of both the driver and his vehicle. Some good ones were selected and given financial aid for improving their condition.

A dozen of them were allowed to stand near the Palace and carry tourists at a fixed fare. Back on roads, they continued to carry tourists even after Dasara days to the nearby tourist spots.

The experiment was a success. This year, 20 'tongas' have been selected and pressed into service. "We are happy the government gave us Rs 1,000 to recondition the tonga," says Babu, who has been in the profession since 25 years.

He takes 3-4 passengers in his decked up 'tonga' around the Palace for Rs 100, sometimes for Rs 75. The ride is about half an hour.

During Dasara he earns around Rs 200 a day. Other days, he earns Rs 100-150. "I spend Rs 50 on the horse. With the rest, I manage my family," he says with a smile.

Equally happy is Anthony, who has been in the job for 20 years. "I charge Rs 200 for a full-round which covers the nearby tourist spots," he says sporting Mysore's famous turban and uniform given to him last year by the Dasara authorities.

Dasara has given hopes to these old cab drivers and their families. More of them are looking forward to a similar |decent life, to be back on their favourite royal roads of Mysore.