Customers have given overwhelming recognition to their `brand' of dependable service by staying loyal for over a century. There are instances where three generations have carried on with their service. This is repeat order business based on punctual delivery and exemplary service record.

The performance of dabawalas' shows, they have learnt the art of living with wisdom inherited from their illiterate parents, families, spiritual traditions, and local ethnic mores.

From the story we learn, we all are in race with ourselves in this metamorphosis. Strong ancient values can nurture solid modern business. Such durable ventures meet the aspirations and needs of common consumers and barely literate deliverymen.

These illuminating dialogues throw light on eternal conflicts between tradition and modernity, men and machines, ecology and technology, essential consumption and rampant consumerism. The daily battle between craze for `having' and contented `being' is won in eking out existence.

In short Dabawalas have found the nectar of life, preserved in their value set `Enough is enough'. It is the confluence of achievement, significance, legacy and happiness, which provides them work-life balance.

I hope the reader enjoys what s/he discovers from this story. S/he will learn to cope with nerve racking technological change by updating physical and mental skills.

One has to remember that one is not in race with the speed of change. Contentment is guaranteed if one moves just enough with the times while remaining steadfast with personal value set.

Image: Indian Dabbawalas celebrate their victory over the 'Boys of Brazil' after a street football exibition match 'Defend Your Turf' organised by Nokia India in Mumbai last year.

Photograph: Sebastian D'Souza/AFP/Getty Images