He is a storyteller at heart, always on the lookout for narratives that are raw, and often hidden from plain sight. His approach has been to delve into the complexities of stories and present them with honesty and without bias. Over the years, he has written on a wide spectrum of topics, ranging from organised crime to the harrowing realities of terrorism, as well as the nuanced socio-political undercurrents that shape these phenomena. At the core, he is someone who believes that truth, no matter how layered, deserves to see the light of day.
Meet S. Hussain Zaidi, veteran investigative and crime writer for leading newspaper dailies and author of several bestselling books including Dongri to Dubai: Six Decades of the Mumbai Mafia, Mafia Queens of Mumbai, Black Friday and My Name Is Abu Salem, and the associate producer for the movie Terror in Mumbai, based on the 26/11 terror strikes.
Zaidi’s latest release From Dubai To Karachi — a sequel to Black Friday — is a portrayal of the world’s most wanted fugitive Dawood Ibrahim who went undercover after the serial blasts of March 12, 1993, in Mumbai. The author’s riveting investigation led to Karachi where he remains untouched by either of the governments.
An interaction with S. Hussaini Zaidi on the thrilling book that keeps you hooked with jaw-dropping revelations — from the glitz of Bollywood to the powerplay of politics.
Excerpts from the interview:
Being an investigative writer, what is the appeal of mysteries for you?
As a crime journalist, I spent decades delving into the murky underbelly of organised crime and terrorism. It was natural for me to have a deep connection with crime stories that reflect the fabric of our society. It’s a lens through which I understand the world. The appeal of mysteries lies in uncovering hidden truths. It’s like solving a puzzle — every clue takes you closer to understanding not just the crime, but also the motivations, the emotions, and the consequences.
What influenced your writing in your journey as a crime writer and author?
My background as a crime journalist gave me access to people, events, and stories that most would never encounter. From meeting police officers and gangsters to understanding the legal and judicial systems, my experiences shaped my writing. Additionally, Mumbai, an enigmatic city and a victim of several riots and attacks, has always been a character in my work. Authors like Vikram Chandra also inspired me to explore the narrative potential of real-life events.
Tell us about the book From Dubai to Karachi and what inspired you to pen this?
The inspiration to write this book came from a collective curiosity I encountered over the years—people wanted to know what happened to the perpetrators of the 1993 Mumbai blasts. More specifically, they were eager to understand what became of Dawood Ibrahim after he moved from Dubai to Karachi, how he managed to expand his criminal empire, and the intricacies of his operations on foreign soil.
This book offers a detailed account of his journey, shedding light on how he not only survived but thrived after relocating to Pakistan, cementing his role as a global player in organised crime. Some of the stories in this book reveal aspects of Dawood’s life that have never been mentioned before, particularly his deep-rooted political connections in Pakistan and how they bolstered his position. It’s a narrative that unravels not just the man, but also the international nexus of crime and politics that he became an integral part of.
What kind of research was required to bring out insights on India’s most wanted fugitive, Dawood Ibrahim?
The research was extensive and challenging. It involved poring over files, court records, and intelligence reports. I conducted interviews with retired police officers, intelligence officials, and even individuals who had been part of his network or the network of his enemies. Additionally, travelling to places like Dubai helped me understand the environments where he operated.
What is the most difficult and fun part of the writing process when it comes to crime?
The most difficult part is maintaining objectivity while dealing with such charged and sensitive topics. You have to ensure that the narrative does not glorify crime but also does not oversimplify the lives of those involved. The fun part is uncovering stories and details that are stranger than fiction. Crime writing often reveals the sheer audacity of human behaviour, which can be both shocking and fascinating.
Tell us about the other books penned by you.
Each of my books explores a different aspect of organised crime in India. Dongri to Dubai traces the evolution of the Mumbai underworld, offering a panoramic view of its history. Mafia Queens of Mumbai highlights the often-overlooked women who played pivotal roles in this world. Black Friday is an account of the 1993 Mumbai blasts, blending journalism with narrative. My Name is Abu Salem focuses on one man’s journey through the criminal landscape. Together, these books are a rare mixture of the underworld’s complexities.
