'Sticker Ramu,' turned autos into canvases bearing likeness of Shankar Nag

Applying stickers grew into a meaningful tribute that has endured for 24 years

Shankar Nag's "Auto Raja" movie earned admiration among auto drivers

In 1999, Ramachandran R embarked on a mission to honor Shankar Nag, a beloved cultural icon in Karnataka.

Fondly known as ‘Sticker Ramu,’ he decided to turn Bengaluru’s ubiquitous auto rickshaws into canvases bearing the likeness of Shankar Nag. This humble act of applying stickers has grown into a meaningful tribute that has endured for 24 years.

Shankar Nag’s portrayal of an auto rickshaw driver in the 1980 film “Auto Raja” had elevated the profession’s status, earning him immense admiration among auto drivers. Inspired by this, Ramachandran took it upon himself to ensure that every auto displayed Shankar Nag’s image, preserving his legacy.

Ramachandran’s shop in Bilekahalli houses a meticulously organized collection of Shankar Nag stickers, including sketches, photographs, and hand-painted images.

Despite the passage of time, Ramachandran’s love for Shankar Nag remains unwavering. He continues to celebrate his favorite star while making a living from his passion.

Today, ‘Sticker Ramu’ is a household name among Bengaluru’s auto drivers, who queue up outside his shop to have their vehicles adorned with various stickers.

Ramachandran’s dedication to Shankar Nag’s memory extends beyond stickers; he watches Nag’s movies, creates Instagram reels, and maintains a collection of 300 unique Shankar Nag stickers. Thanks to his tireless efforts, Shankar Nag’s image continues to grace vehicles throughout the region, ensuring that the legendary actor’s legacy lives on.