Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj offered a thoughtful perspective on the evolving nature of crime storytelling in India at the launch of S Hussain Zaidi’s latest book, ‘Mafia Queens of India’, which he co-authored with his wife Velly Thevar, noting that the country’s underworld narratives are no longer confined to the familiar lanes of Mumbai. Speaking at the event, Bhardwaj observed that the “spectrum has widened” when it comes to mafia stories in India. While Mumbai has long dominated popular imagination with its “very glamorised mafia,” he pointed out that equally compelling and perhaps more diverse stories are emerging from other parts of the country. “There are so many stories from Uttar Pradesh and the northern belt,” he said, suggesting that these regions offer rich, untapped material for filmmakers and writers alike. Bhardwaj, known for his layered storytelling, also spoke about the artistic potential embedded in such real-life narratives. Despite being centered on individuals operating on the wrong side of the law, he emphasized that these stories hold significant value for creative interpretation. “These stories have a lot of material for artists,” he remarked. Having read parts of the book, the filmmaker expressed appreciation for its content, calling the stories “very good” and singling out its portrayal of women. He described the female characters featured in the book as “amazing,” underscoring the importance of bringing these lesser-known figures into the spotlight. His comments also hinted at the cinematic possibilities of the work. “I would absolutely love to see this on screen,” Bhardwaj said, suggesting that the stories could translate effectively into film or series formats. The panel discussion at the event, moderated by actress Kirti Kulhari, underscored a broader shift in Indian crime narratives, moving beyond the traditional Mumbai underworld to a more expansive, inclusive exploration of power, crime, and gender across regions.
