Picture this: a 74-year-old woman, draped in a traditional flowing saree, gracefully slides into the driver's seat of a gleaming Rolls-Royce Ghost. She cruises through the bustling streets of Dubai with effortless poise, as if it were an everyday occurrence. This isn't a scene from an animated fantasy film; it's the real-life magic of Radhamani Amma, affectionately known as "Driver Amma" from Kerala, whose viral video has captivated the internet with waves of appreciation and sheer amazement.
Driver Amma Steals the Show in Dubai with Luxury Ride
Radhamani Amma, often called Mani Amma or "Driver Amma," recently stole the spotlight with a video posted on her Instagram handle @maniamma_official. In the clip, the 74-year-old Kerala native is seen wearing a saree, first displaying her International Driving Permit—a mandatory document for driving abroad—before confidently taking the wheel of the luxurious Rolls-Royce Ghost. Her calm and controlled navigation through Dubai's roads left viewers in awe, effectively smashing age and gender norms that often confine women to stereotypical roles.
The video quickly went viral across social media platforms, garnering widespread engagement and praise for being a shining example of breaking societal barriers. Among the admirers was industrialist Anand Mahindra, known for sharing unique and inspiring content online. He hailed Amma as "MondayMotivation" and applauded her "insatiable appetite for life," adding to the chorus of accolades celebrating her spirit.
Amma Holds 11 Types of Driving Licences and Runs an Institute
What truly sets "Driver Amma" apart is her impressive collection of 11 driving licences, covering vehicles ranging from cars and buses to trucks, cranes, and forklifts. This remarkable feat has earned her recognition in the India Book of Records for holding the most licences by someone over 70 years old. Beyond her personal achievements, Amma co-founded the A2Z Institute of Heavy Equipment in Kerala, where she trains individuals, particularly women, in operating heavy vehicles—a field traditionally dominated by men.
On her Instagram, she shares pearls of wisdom, such as, "The best drivers are not those who drive fast, but those who drive with calm and control." Her inspirational journey has also been honored with the title of 'Inspirational Personality of the Year' in 2022. According to a Money Control report, she recently earned a diploma in mechanical engineering in her 70s, underscoring her commitment to lifelong learning.
Her Driving Journey: Over Four Decades of Perseverance
Amma's driving story began over 40 years ago, sparked by a suggestion from her husband. In an interview with The Indian Express, she recalled, "I first ventured into driving when my husband suggested." She obtained her four-wheeler licence in 1981 and a heavy vehicle licence in 1984—a rare accomplishment for women in Kerala at that time. Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of her husband in 2004, she persevered and expanded her institute, turning adversity into opportunity.
Reflecting on the evolving landscape, Amma noted, "Driving is now considered a necessity for both men and women," emphasizing that skilled drivers have abundant opportunities regardless of gender. She urges others with her motivational words: "If you truly desire something, with dedication and belief, you can achieve it." For her, learning is "an eternal voyage," a philosophy that continues to inspire countless people across India and beyond.
Radhamani Amma's story is not just about luxury rides or viral fame; it's a testament to relentless toil, lifelong learning, and chasing dreams against all odds. In a world quick to stereotype, she stands as a beacon of empowerment, proving that age and gender are no barriers to achieving greatness.
