For the first time in the history of the BMC, a film has been produced spotlighting the life of a civic officer whose visionary efforts empowered municipal workers to pursue education and uplift their lives.
Based on the real-life story of Uday Shirurkar, retired Assistant Municipal Commissioner (AMC), the film "Ata Thambaycha Naay" captures his relentless drive to uplift BMC's Class IV workers by encouraging them to pursue education, build self-worth, and break the cycle of limitation. Celebrated filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker plays the lead actor—portraying Shirurkar’s journey in the film, which will be released on Maharashtra Day, May 1.
During his tenure as AMC of 'B' Ward, Shirurkar made an impact in areas like Madanpura, Pydhonie, Abdul Rehman Street, and Nagpada—neighborhoods whose very names once evoked fear due to their notoriety. Known for his firm stance against unauthorised constructions, Shirurkar led multiple demolition drives to reclaim public space. Beyond his administrative duties, he motivated Class IV civic employees—sweepers, manhole cleaners, and road and pipeline repairmen, many earning less than Rs 6,000 a month—to pursue education. His initiative led 23 of these workers to complete their SSC (Secondary School Certificate) exams in 2017, years after they had dropped out of school. Their inspiring journey even caught the attention of filmmakers.
"The recognition they received from society had a ripple effect. It inspired 26 more workers, many of whom had earlier refused to attend night classes out of shame. Motivated by the success of their peers, they too stepped forward to reclaim their education and dignity. This remarkable transformation caught the attention of producer Dharam Walia, who showed interest to make a film on it. Though I was initially reluctant, Walia conducted extensive research, met with the workers personally, and remained committed to telling their story. The narrative resonated so strongly that renowned filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker even expressed interest in portraying me on screen," said Shirurkar.
The film, directed by Shivraj Waichal, features some of Marathi cinema’s finest actors: Bharat Jadhav, Siddhartha Jadhav, Parna Pethe, and Rohini Hattangadi. Though Shirurkar retired eight years ago, the movement he started lives on. Today, many BMC's Class IV workers not only complete their SSC but go on to earn graduate degrees. Some have received promotions and pay hikes—proof that education truly empowers. In an era where honest officers often face transfers for taking bold action, Shirurkar remains unwavering in his beliefs. “There may be many hurdles in our way,” he says, “but if we work with honesty and dedication—without fear—we can complete our mission.”
