Stories behind “Horn OK Please”: Funny Quotes behind the Trucks and Their Meanings

Trucks with vibrant artwork, poetry, and slogans are a distinctive cultural phenomenon that you have probably observed if you have driven over India's highways. Truck drivers form a unique relationship with their truck. From state to state, across borders, they spend a lot of time in their trucks. Most name their trucks, and others animate them with jingly decorations. All of them certainly paint them, though with complex design, landscape, Satya Vachan (guidance), and casual comedy.

Let’s first discuss “HORN OK PLEASE”, as this is the most common phrase painted behind the trucks.

For years, this seemingly straightforward expression has sparked curiosity, becoming an integral element of Indian highway culture. One simple meaning of "Horn Ok Please" is to honk before passing. This phrase is mostly used to let truck drivers know when there is a car behind them. In the past, many trucks didn't have side mirrors, so the horn was the only way for truck drivers to tell if any vehicle was behind them. That makes sense of the word, but what's with the "Ok" in the middle? It makes more sense to say "Horn please". 

What's with the "OK"?

The middle "OK" could mean a number of different things. One idea is that the "OK" and the "Horn Please" should be written in different fonts and should be separated. That is, only "Horn Please" should be seen if the vehicle behind is close. This doesn't seem to be true, though, since trucks usually have this phrase in the same font and painted together.

The next idea makes a little more sense, so let's move on. During WWII, there was a severe lack of fuel all over the world. Trucks were full of kerosene back then, and we all know what paraffin can do. So the "OK" really meant "On Kerosene" to let drivers know they should stay far away. Another unique theory is that Tata had a monopoly in the truck market and, through its subsidiary Tata Oil Mills, had introduced a new bath soap named "OK." Therefore, using its trucks to promote the "OK" soap was a very smart move on the part of Tata. 

Did you know?

The Maharashtra transportation department worked to forbid "Horn OK Please" in 2015 in order to lower too much honking that raised noise pollution. The aim was to provide the surroundings greater peace and silence. But still, the age-old custom and public demonstrations from the truckers and public make it a useless effort.

Now let’s take a look at some funny quotes painted on trucks that would make you stop and appreciate the humor and creativity. Overall, many lines written on the back of trucks tell us a new way of life. They give us the message to avoid accidents and inspire us.

1. “Buri Nazar Wale Tera Muh Kala”

Buri Nazar means jealousy. In this idiom, blackening of the face means that the person's honor is also harmed. That is, if someone casts an evil eye, then his honor is also tarnished.

2. “Maa Kaa Aashirwad”

Important for every one of us and something to always keep in mind are our mother's blessings.

3. “Use Dipper at Night”

Use Dipper at Night" is a phrase that means to dim headlights at night while driving. 

4. “Dheere chal Pyaare, Jeevan Anmol hai.”

Drive slowly, dear; life is precious. This is to advise others on the road to drive slowly because life is precious.

5. “Jal mat Pagli, Kishto pe aai hai.”

Don't get jealous, crazy girl; it has come in installments.

6. “Maalik ki Gaadi, Driver kaa Paseena, Chalti hai Road par ban kar Haseena”

Owner's truck, the driver's sweat, moves on the road like a beautiful girl.

7. “Jab Beti hi nahi Bachaoge, toh Bahu kaha se Laaoge?”

If you don't save your daughter, then from where will you bring a daughter-in-law?

By reading these lines, not only will you laugh but you will also get positivity and inspiration in life. These Shayari and Quotes on the back of trucks make us realize the truths of our life and give everyone a new perspective.