One such recent ride to work resulted in a conversation with a 24-yr-old driver (as bright and professional as they come) who moonlights as a smalltime henchman/bounty hunter! It all stemmed from an engaging discussion about Rajinikanth’s entry into politics and exchanging notes on his best film (we picked Thalapathi). 

“Anna, my friends and I do something similar on the side. I trust you, so I’m giving you my private number. If you’re ever in any trouble, don’t hesitate to give me one call. We’ll be right there in a jiffy and take care of the matter for you. I even have my weapon with me right now in case of emergency.” 

While being positively alarmed at being in a car ride with someone who breaks bones for a living (and at the car company’s terrible background checks), this scribe wanted to know more. 

Apparently, his ‘gang’ comprises food delivery boys, mechanics, electricians and more – youngsters pursuing honest professions – but get together every once in a while to bury a hatchet or family drama, using brute force when needed. But there’s a catch - “We don’t just go beat up anyone for money. We always hear both sides of the story - only if we feel the accused is guilty, and then do we threaten them,” he said. 

What’s worse is that this hitman didn’t even flinch upon learning that his latest passenger was a journalist! — Gautam Sunder