Article Today, Hyderabad:
In Hyderabad’s bustling IT corridors, a growing number of techies are turning to an unusual night-time pursuit — driving cabs. What began as a side hustle for extra income has evolved into a psychological escape for many who feel trapped in the monotony of corporate life.
Escaping the Routine
Abhinav, a 27-year-old software engineer from Vijayawada, moved to Hyderabad two years ago. His daily routine in a tech firm soon became repetitive. The isolation of living alone added to his fatigue. Seeking relief, he began driving cabs two nights a week on the airport route. “It breaks the monotony. I get to meet new people instead of staring at a screen all day,” he said.
A Growing Trend Across Cities
This is not a solitary case. Similar stories are emerging from major cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. App-based platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido list several part-time drivers who are full-time IT professionals by day. The trend, most visible in Hyderabad’s IT hub, reflects deeper issues within India’s corporate work culture — stress, isolation, and the search for meaningful social interaction.
Beyond Money: The Need for Connection
While some moonlight for extra income, many cite emotional and psychological reasons. The chance to engage in real conversations with strangers offers a sense of connection missing in their office environments. “Talking to people helps me unwind. It reminds me there’s a world outside my laptop,” shared another driver, employed at a leading IT firm. The anonymity of driving also adds a sense of thrill — an opportunity to momentarily step away from professional identities.
Viral Stories on Social Media
Social media platforms have amplified awareness of this trend. On LinkedIn, users have shared encounters with cab drivers who turned out to be software engineers. One rider described discovering that his Rapido driver worked at a top multinational company. Another post narrated how a manager unexpectedly met his employee driving an Uber at night. These stories highlight both curiosity and empathy for tech workers struggling with invisible pressures.
Income and Relief Combined
Driving part-time brings modest but meaningful financial benefits. Two late-night airport trips can earn drivers Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 8,000 per month in additional income. For many, this is secondary to the mental relief it provides. Long work hours and performance targets have left many IT employees seeking new ways to decompress. Some even report networking opportunities during these drives, occasionally leading to job offers or freelance work.
A Reflection of Corporate Fatigue
The rise of moonlighting cab drivers among tech professionals signals a silent commentary on India’s corporate culture. While workplaces promote flexibility and innovation, many employees still battle burnout and loneliness. As night falls in Hyderabad’s tech belt, the same professionals who code by day steer their way through city lights — not just for income, but to rediscover connection and freedom.
