Chennai: Sharmila (24), the first female bus driver from Coimbatore, found herself out of work due to a disagreement related to Kanimozhi MP’s bus journey and has embarked on a new career as a taxi driver. She received a heartwarming gesture from renowned actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) leader Kamal Haasan, who presented her with a brand new car.

Sharmila is the daughter of Mahesh from Palakkad and Hima from Shoranur. Last week, DMK Leader Kanimozhi boarded the bus Sharmila was driving. However, a disagreement arose between Sharmila and the bus conductor, Annathai, regarding Kanimozhi's fare collection.

Despite Sharmila's instructions forbidding Annathai from accepting money from Kanimozhi, her request went unheard. The disagreement escalated further after Kanimozhi disembarked, prompting Sharmila to abruptly halt her duties and leave the bus. Sharmila later revealed that she was fired from her job due to the incident.

In response, a wave of support, including from Kanimozhi, emerged for Sharmila, with the assurance that steps would be taken to secure her alternative employment. Meanwhile, actor Kamal Haasan took it upon himself to offer a helping hand to Sharmila. Inviting Sharmila to Chennai, Kamal Haasan personally handed her a cheque for Rs 3 lakh to book a car for her new venture. This contribution from Kamal Haasan was made through his voluntary organisation, the Kamal Cultural Centre.