Driving down 'fame-gali' on 6 wheels

“I feel like a celebrity. I don’t know what the award is called or what difference it will make, but if everybody is appreciating it, then I think it might be great!” And when that comes from the protagonist of a film that has been selected as a country’s official entry to the prestigious Oscar awards, there isn’t much that you can add to make the picture clearer.

Yes, we are referring to Shamji Dhana Kerasia, the real life truck driver, who’s role in ‘The Good Road’ (TGR) has sent him hurtling down the road to fame, all of a sudden.

When dna called him up, Shamji was on his way home in Sumrasur (Bhuj) from Mandavi after delivering goods and was resting at a local dhaba. “Amitabh bhai (Amitabh Singh, cinematographer of the film) called me up to inform that our film will be sent for a world-class award.” he said.

“And since Saturday, I have been getting calls from reporters — so, I feel important,” claimed a man, who have hardly seen any movies in his life, or even has a TV at home, until he bagged a role in this film.

“With an income of Rs 15,000-20,000, a month, I can’t afford a new TV but my daughters were keen on seeing me on screen, that’s why I bought a second-hand TV that fits my budget so that all of us can watch my film together,” said Shamji, who has pocketed Rs80,000 for the film. However, the DVD of the film which was promised to him, remains unfulfilled. “None of us have watched the film yet, as we are still waiting to get the CD as told by the director. I hope we get it soon, as now my whole neighbourhood is excited to see what I have done so well, that I am getting all this fame,” he added.

The 36-year-old truck driver lives with his wife and three daughters in a small house which has one drawing room and kitchen. His wife, Ratan Kerasia is a home-maker and takes care of the three buffaloes and two cows that they own. Their three daughters – Daksha (13), Urmila (11), and Sangeeta (6) – are currently studying in grade 8, 6, and 1, respectively. “My family is very happy, especially, Urmila. After seeing the recognition I am getting, she tells me that when she grows up, she wants to become an actor and get famous,” the proud father claims.

About how he bagged the role, Shamji recounts how he was asked to give audition for the film on his way from Madhapur to Bhuj, and how he showed his reluctance. “But I did give the audition and was selected to come to Ahmedabad for the second audition — I was selected even here. I was very nervous and camera-shy at first, but with passing days and help from Gyan bhai and other team members, I was comfortable. For every scene, I was briefed and trained well before the shoot starts.”