Dongri To Dubai : Six Decades of The Mumbai Mafia by S. Hussain ZaidiMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is the first attempt to chronicle the history of the Mumbai (formerly Bombay) mafia, tracing its evolution from the rise of the Pathans to the formation of the Dawood gang in India.
Zaidi, an Indian author, journalist, and screenwriter, has made significant contributions to crime reporting, investigative journalism, and storytelling. His work is renowned for its gritty realism and captivating narratives.
The book focuses on the life of Dawood Ibrahim, who was initially drawn into crime by the Mumbai police but later became their most formidable adversary. It also profiles other infamous gangsters, including Haji Mastan, Karim Lala, Varadarajan Mudaliar, and Chhota Rajan.
One of the key themes is the mafia's involvement in Bollywood, the world’s largest film industry, based in India. The book explores the deep ties between the Mumbai mafia and Bollywood, revealing how gangsters influenced film production and distribution.
Zaidi also discusses Pakistan's alleged role in sheltering Dawood after his relocation to Karachi. The book details Dawood's escape to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) and his eventual move to Pakistan, where he continues to operate his criminal empire.
At its core, the book chronicles Dawood's journey from a young boy in the slums of Dongri, Mumbai, to becoming one of the world's most notorious gangsters. It examines how Dawood used his cunning, ruthlessness, and political connections to rise as the undisputed kingpin of the Mumbai underworld.
Zaidi provides a comprehensive history of the Mumbai mafia, beginning with the early days of smuggling and bootlegging, progressing to the era of organized crime and terrorism. He delves into the intense gang wars and turf battles that defined the underworld, featuring figures like Haji Mastan, Karim Lala, and Chhota Rajan.
The book also addresses the 1993 Bombay blasts, allegedly orchestrated by Dawood and his associates, which marked a turning point in India's history of terrorism. It examines the far-reaching impact of the Mumbai mafia on Indian society, including its roles in corruption, extortion, and drug trafficking.
This gripping, meticulously researched account of the Mumbai underworld offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of its notorious gangsters and their influence on the city. Zaidi's engaging writing style and knack for weaving compelling narratives kept me hooked from start to finish. He skillfully blends historical facts with vivid storytelling, bringing the underworld of Mumbai to life.
The book is based on extensive research, including interviews, police records, and other credible sources, ensuring accuracy and reliability. Zaidi masterfully creates an immersive atmosphere, vividly describing the gritty and dangerous world of Mumbai's underbelly, from its shadowy back alleys and seedy bars to its opulent mansions.
While the subject matter is inherently dramatic, Zaidi maintains an objective tone throughout, allowing readers to form their own conclusions about the characters and events.
That said, some readers have criticized the book for its densely detailed narrative and extensive research, which may slow the pacing at times. Additionally, as the book deals with sensitive topics like violence, drug trafficking, and organized crime, certain descriptions might be graphic or unsettling for some readers.
Despite these minor criticisms, I found Zaidi’s exploration of Mumbai’s underworld to be a well-written, informative work that offers a captivating look into the city’s darker history. Zaidi’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, history, or the complexities of human nature whether it’s in India or any other society of the world.
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