In the picturesque terrain of South Kashmir’s Shopian district, a new internet sensation has emerged in the form of Sethi Express. The story spans perseverance, resilience, and the transformative power of social media. For the past three years, Shareef Shahnawaz, known as Sethi Express, has been captivating audiences by sharing his unique experiences as a truck driver through vlogs, offering a glimpse into the life of those who traverse India’s vast landscapes delivering essential goods.
Sethi’s journey to internet stardom is rooted in a life of hardship and relentless struggle. Born into a family facing severe financial difficulties, he was forced to abandon his education after the eighth grade. “My life was in struggle before uploading the videos of vlogging,” Sethi said. He undertook various forms of labor work across Kashmir, including working as a street vendor and a laborer at Dal Lake in Srinagar, in an effort to support his family. Despite the harsh realities of his early life, Sethi harbored a dream that would eventually shape his future.
From a young age, Sethi aspired to become a truck driver. His passion was not just about the job itself but the freedom and adventure it represented. “During my childhood days, my passion was to become a truck driver. I struggled hard to become one,” he told Rising Kashmir. This dream became a reality in 2021 when he finally achieved his goal. However, becoming a truck driver was only the beginning of Sethi’s remarkable journey.
Once behind the wheel, Sethi began documenting his travels, showcasing the life of a truck driver as he navigated the length and breadth of India. His vlogs, which feature routes from Kashmir to various parts of the country, offer viewers an inside look at the day-to-day challenges and experiences of truck drivers. Transporting essential items, including apples—a major product of Kashmir—Sethi’s videos highlight the crucial role truck drivers play in the supply chain.
Sethi’s vlogs quickly gained popularity, resonating with a wide audience who found his content both informative and entertaining. Through his candid storytelling and the authenticity of his experiences, he amassed a significant following on social media. Despite his newfound fame, Sethi remains grounded and committed to his responsibilities. “I never go home for months due to hard work because I am a bread earner for my parents,” he explains. This dedication to his family underscores the continued challenges he faces, even as his online presence grows.
In his conversations and vlogs, Sethi frequently reflects on the contrast between the romanticized portrayal of truck driving in social media and the stark reality of the profession. “This truck life is only good in reels but not in real life,”he stated emphasizing the importance of education. He urges youth to focus on their studies, highlighting that the life of a truck driver, while adventurous, is fraught with difficulties and is not a sustainable path for everyone.
Sethi Express’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of digital platforms in transforming lives. His rise from labor work to becoming a celebrated truck vlogger underscores the potential for individuals to overcome significant obstacles and achieve success through determination and innovation. By sharing his journey, Sethi not only entertains but also educates his audience about the realities of life on the road, providing a valuable perspective on the often-overlooked profession of truck driving.
Sethi Express’s narrative is an inspiring example of how one can turn life’s challenges into opportunities. His vlogs serve as a window into a world rarely seen by the public, bridging the gap between the struggles of everyday labor and the possibilities afforded by social media. As he continues to navigate the roads of India, Sethi remains a beacon of hope and resilience, reminding us all that with passion and perseverance, we can achieve our dreams despite the odds.
