Sethi Xpress: Trucking on the Road, Steering Online Traffic!

Munaza Illahi

Srinagar, Sept 27: In a time when social media and youth unemployment are at an all-time high, one young individual has harnessed the power of these platforms not only to generate income but also to normalize unconventional professions such as trucking. Shahnawaz Ahmad Bhat, popularly known as Sethi Xpress, has taken vlogging to new heights by blending technology, travel, and social media in a way that captivates audiences across India, including the Kashmiri youth.

Born in Pashpora, Shopian, the 25-year-old trucker has gained immense popularity through his unique approach of transforming his long-haul journeys into captivating video content. Sethi’s journey began in 2014 when he joined as a helper in the truck at the age of 17. Although he initially left due to the harsh weather conditions outside Kashmir, his determination led him to return as a backup driver and then the main driver, which turned into a remarkable voyage of self-discovery and social media success for him.

Bhat's life changed dramatically when a video of him driving a truck while singing and vibing to a Hindi song went viral. Initially, he uploaded the video merely to save it without any intention of vlogging. However, to his amazement, the seemingly ordinary video garnered over 4 lakh views, earned him 3,600 subscribers on YouTube, and currently boasts an impressive 4.2 million views.

Thrilled by the unexpected success, Shahnawaz, aka Sethi Xpress, embarked on his vlogging journey in earnest. Today, he has more than 3 lakh subscribers on YouTube and has received the prestigious Silver YouTube Play Button for surpassing the 1 lakh subscriber milestone. With 3.5 lakh followers on Facebook and 1.5 lakh on Instagram, each of his reels and YouTube videos attracts millions of views, with almost every reel going viral within hours of upload.

His authenticity and spontaneous approach to vlogging have resonated deeply with viewers, as he skillfully captures the intricacies of a truck driver's life, from the confines of his truck's cabin to the laborious tasks of loading and unloading the truck and the unpredictable events encountered during journeys that stretch from Kashmir to the southern tip of India in Kanyakumari, inviting his viewers to experience life on the road.

Documenting his everyday long-haul journeys, Bhat records his adventures using a GoPro camera. Single-handedly managing everything from shooting to editing, Bhat drives an average of 18-19 hours a day and spends more than 25 days on the road each month.

Acknowledging his exceptional contribution to the YouTube community and revolutionizing truck vlogging in Jammu and Kashmir, Shahnawaz was honored with an appreciation award by Aryans Group of Colleges, Chandigarh. Through his gripping storytelling, he has not only defied stereotypes associated with trucking but has also become an inspiration for the youth, showcasing the potential of social media as a tool for personal and financial growth.

As the first truck vlogger from Jammu and Kashmir, he has a large and devoted fan base ranging from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Beyond his achievements as a vlogging sensation, Sethi Xpress has become an influential figure, shattering stereotypes associated with trucking. Through his captivating videos, he aims to dispel misconceptions and shed light on the invaluable contributions of truck drivers. “We often go unnoticed until the highways are closed and essential supplies become scarce; till then, people have no idea where it is coming from and who spends nights awake grilling on the road to make the stuff available to them,” he states. “Regardless of knowing anything about our lives, there are people who automatically assume that if a person is a truck driver, he must also be a drunkard, which is totally wrong and unacceptable,” he further adds.

With his rap song titled "Life Struggle," he offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by truckers and seeks to change public perceptions.

Bhat's success on social media has also brought about a positive change in his personal life. With his newfound income, he has constructed a new house for his family after 18 years. “All thanks to Almighty that my vlogs have provided me with a good source of income, and currently, I am able to support my entire family,” Bhat acknowledges.

For him, social media is more than just a platform; it represents a world of opportunities. He believes that if used rightly, it becomes a medium for growth, learning, and skill development. Bhat's ultimate aim is to inspire and entertain people and bring smiles to people's faces.

In an era dominated by social media, Shahnawaz Ahmad Bhat, aka Sethi Xpress’s remarkable journey, serves as an inspiration to youth across the nation, proving that with determination, creativity, and the right platform, anyone can turn their passion into a thriving career.