‘No free food, no drinks, no gadgets’: MIT graduate spots 20-year-old reading at Bengaluru airport lounge, shares a powerful reminder

In an era where we are heavily dependent on gadgets for our travel, documents, information, entertainment and connectivity as well, it has become rare to spot people reading a book. A physical copy. Jaipur-based founder, an MIT graduatea, at Bengaluru airport lounge noticed how a 20-year-old boy, was reading a book, instead of getting busy with the free food, drinks or gadgets. He was reminded of the joy of simple reading. What began as two strangers reading in silence soon turned into a conversation that left Kheterpal feeling happy.

Curious about the book, Kheterpal briefly glanced at its cover. For nearly an hour, the two continued reading without seeking distractions. As he described the scene on X, there was “no free food, no drinks, no gadgets”, just occasional eye contact and a few smiles.

What the young man told Gaurav Kheterpal

Before leaving, Kheterpal complimented the young man, telling him that he rarely came across people his age reading in public places.


The young reader's response made the encounter memorable. He explained that he had noticed Kheterpal reading in a corner and understood that he had chosen the spot because it was likely to be quiet.

The observation delighted the founder, who said he felt happy knowing that, despite the many distractions around them, some people still find greater joy in reading.

MIT graduate shares a reminder about reading

Reflecting on the experience, Kheterpal encouraged people to make reading a part of their lives. He ended his post with a reminder: “Read.”

He also shared the view that a person who does not read is no better than someone who does not know how to read, highlighting the value of choosing books even when distractions are everywhere.

Netizens react

A user wrote, "A quiet hour of two strangers just reading is a lovely scene. Did you spot which sci-fi title he had?" One said, "Great, as we appreciate reading books there are people who read but online, we should be giving same level of appriciation." Another added, "Fabulous, may the tribe grow."