Bambai Meri Jaan

Within this series, readers acquainted with Hussain Zaidi's literary world will find a vivid tapestry of the early 80s and 90s in Bombay. It's as though the show intricately weaves a cinematic canvas that paints the real-life underworld era, capturing incidents like money extortion and Rolex watch scams that were indelible parts of the city's history during that tumultuous period.

While Kay Kay Menon's performance is a brilliant star in its own right, it's Avinash Tiwary who emerges as the true guiding light. With finesse, he seizes control of the script and delivers a performance that resonates profoundly, leaving an indelible mark on the viewer's psyche.

Aditya Rawal's contribution to the series is nothing short of awe-inspiring, earning him a place of honor. His portrayal is like a multi-layered tapestry, adding depth and complexity to the narrative with his extraordinary acting prowess. Rawal's presence in the show is akin to a shining beacon in the night, guiding the audience through this mesmerizing journey.

I understand few folks are comparing this to gangs of wasseypur. Well, no offense, these millenials need to know the history before writing a review. The greatest rivarly that ever existed in Mumbai between Haji and D Company was well showcased in this 10 episode event. Hats off to the director and writers. Although, my review is also based on the news and movies I have seen over the years on this feud, nonetheless, this was a great entertainer. Nicely written combined with pace. Anybody who knows Mumbai knows what this story was. I hope this series receives much better ratings in order to encourage those fearless writers and producers to come forth and convert little known facts into public knowledge.

For those who read the book of this famous writer Hussain Zaidi, knows exactly what happened in early 80's and 90's in bombay. This series holds up a strong grip on those real life incidents and events that took place in underwood era. From money extortion to Rolex watch scammers that used to took place at that time was exactly happened in real life at that time by very own "D". Kay Kay memon excelled in his role, almost a show stealer but Ohh boy what a performance by Avinash Tiwary, who manages to hold the script around himself and delivered a glass shattering performance of the one and only.

In the tumultuous backdrop of 1965 Bombay, "Bambai Meri Jaan" unravels a gripping narrative of Ismail Kadri, a principled police officer and devoted family man. Tasked with exposing the dark alliance between underworld kingpins Haji and Pathan, Ismail's unwavering integrity faces relentless challenges. Simultaneously, he grapples with domestic turmoil, particularly disciplining his son, Dara. An unexpected crisis ensues when Ismail's brother-in-law accidentally kills a fellow officer, leading to Ismail's expulsion from the police force.

Struggling to provide for his family post-dismissal, the weight of poverty begins to shape Dara's perspective. Haji tightens his grip on Ismail, eventually forming a trio of criminal overlords with Anna. Fast forward to 1977, and Dara emerges as a formidable rival, sparking a personal feud with the Pathan gang that escalates into a blood-soaked vendetta.

Dara's pursuit of vengeance leads to alliances with Dubai Sheikhs, giving birth to the notorious D-Company. As his empire expands, family tensions rise, and a revenge-fueled Pathan threatens to dismantle everything. A ruthless war unfolds, resulting in brutal showdowns, and Dara's ultimate sacrifice - leaving his family under the care of his sister, Habiba, as he ventures into an uncertain future in Dubai. "Bambai Meri Jaan" is an unrelenting journey through Mumbai's underbelly, where loyalty, betrayal, and revenge shape destinies, birthing the empire.

This isnt the first attempt at narrating the story of the Mumbai Underworld. Also like all the previous efforts this one tries hard to glorify, glamorise, and even justify the famous Dcompany from even before its inception. The casting was good, although M. Surve's character was either made to look like a joker or it was just poor direction. One way or the other the feared M. Surve was a force to reckon in real life while the one presented here was really week and almost comical. The Shining knight as expected and delivered was KK Menon. The man simply wears the skin he is given and hardly ever fails to make you believe whatever it is that he intends to. D's Daddy stole the show for me cause amidst all the action and drama I was looking forward to his next scenes. Mr. Tiwary has truly stepped forward and has tried to own the character which so many others before him have only managed to stereotype. One of the better versions of D I admit to have seen over the years.

Its definitely engaging and worth a watch, but could have been so much more if the plot were not twisted to this extent. Zaidi's fascination with D and his fairy tales are not new to the audience who is going to watch this genre and subject. Nevertheless as someone grown up it the 70's and 80's it always feels intoxicating to watch what we left behind.